‘‘GROUND VIEW’’ is a civil society initiative facilitated by the Consortium of Humanitarian Agencies (CHA) GROUNDV IEWMAY-JUNE 2008 Volume 1 No. 3 Bi-monthly Journal Rs. 50.00

-Anna Akhmatova Quoted by Dr.Neelan Tiruchelvam in the Budget Debate Nov.16,1998

page...... 04 UNICEF page...... 18 supported Tangalle Water page...... 04 Supply Scheme completed

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Towards Creating a viable agricultural sector page...... 15 page...... 24 02 GROUNDV IEW

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lliances formed on the basis may receive a double body, and the master wish to kill him, too.” Then Meat-Face peered of expediency will last only may prolong his life.” On hearing: this proposal, into Smart’s visage, as much as to say: “Come till one of the partners Spike-Ear said: “If that is possible, my friend, my now! Say something, so that he may calm decides that he is the only body shall be so devoted. Tell the master that down.” But Smart laughed and said: “Come, competent partner while this thing should be done. I stipulate only that come! You ate the camel’s heart all by yourself. othersA are lulled in to the soothing illusion the Death-God be requested to guarantee the Why do you look at me?” of control of the anticipated benefits of bargain.” their joint enterprise. Therein lies a tale. Having made their decision they all went to And Meat-Face, hearing this, fled for his life, visit the lion, and Smart said: “0 King, we did making for another country. But when the lion In a part of a forest lived a lion named Thunder- not find a thing today, and the blessed sun is had pursued him a short distance, he turned Fang, with three counselors, a wolf, a jackal, already near his setting.” On hearing this, the back, thinking: ‘’He, too, is despicable creature. and a camel, whose names were Meat-Face, lion fell into deep despondency. Then Smart I must not kill him.” Smart, and Spike-Ear. One day he fought with a continued: “0 King, our friend Spike-Ear makes At this moment, as fate would have it, there furious elephant whose sharp-pointed tusk so this proposal: ‘If you call upon the Death-God came that way a great camel caravan, heavily tore his body that he withdrew from hunting. to guarantee the bargain, and if you render it laden, making a tremendous jingling with the Then, suffering from a seven-day fast, his body back with 100 per cent of interest, then I will bells tied to the camels’ necks. And when the lean with .hunger, he said to his famished give my body.’ “ “My good fellow,” answered the lion heard the jingle of the bells, loud even in advisers: “Round up some creature in the lion, “yours is a beautiful act. Let it be as you say.” the distance, he said to the jackal: “My good forest, so that, even in my present condition, I On the basis of this pact, Spike-Ear was struck fellow, fmd out what this horrible noise may may provide needed nourishment for you.” The down by the lion’s paw, his body was torn by be.” moment he issued his orders, they roamed the the wolf and the jackal, and he died. wood, but found nothing. On receiving this commission, Smart advanced Thereupon Smart reflected: “If Spike-Ear here Then Smart reflected: “How can I get him all to a little in the forest, then darted back, and cried were killed, then we should all be nourished for myself to eat?” With this thought in his mind, in great excitement: “Master! Run, if you can a few days. However, the master is kept from he noticed that the lion’s body was smeared run!” killing him by friendly feeling. In spite of that, with blood, and he said: “Master, you must go my wit will put the master in a frame of mind to the river to bathe and worship the gods, “My good fellow,” said the lion, “why terrify me to kill him. while I stay here with Meat-Face to guard the so? Tell me what it is.” And Smart cried: “Master, food-supply.” On hearing this, the lion went in the Death-God is coming, and he is in a rage After these reflections, he said to Spike-Ear: to the river. against you because you brought untimely “Friend Spike Ear, the master lacks wholesome death upon his camel, and had him guarantee food, and is starving. If the master goes, When the lion was gone, Smart said to Meat- the bargain. He intends to make you pay a our death is also a certain thing. So I have a Face: “Friend Meat-Face, you are starving. You thousand fold for his camel. He has immense suggestion for your benefit and the master’s.” might eat some of this camel before the old pride in his camels. He is near at hand.” master returns. I will make your apologies to “My good fellow,” said Spike-Ear, “make haste to the master.” So Meat-Face took the hint, but When the lion heard this, he, too abandoned inform me, so that I may unhesitatingly do as had only taken a taste when Smart cried: “Drop the dead camel and scampered for dear life. you say. Besides, one earns credit for a hundred it, Meat-Face. The master is coming.” Whereupon Smart ate the camel bit by bit, so good deeds by serving his master.” Presently the lion returned, saw that the camel that the meat lasted a long time. And Smart said: “My good fellow, give your was minus a heart, and wrathfully roared: “Look own body at 100 per cent interest, so that you here! Who turned this camel into leavings? I (From the Panchatantra)

GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 03 cover story

That Sri Lanka is spiralling ever deeper statistics cannot be obtained from Therefore a word of caution seems into an economic quagmire of the worst the entire country, and taking into to be in order. While economic data scenario is no secret. Inflation is out consideration the massive disparities and statistics is often more or less of control, money is becoming literally in wealth distribution between the representative of the real economic nothing more than bits of paper, and Northern And Eastern provinces which ground situation in many countries, there seems to be no coherent policy to are beleaguered by the conflict and sadly, the same cannot be said for battle the country’s economic troubles. the rest of the country, the statistics Sri Lanka. Politicisation, due to the To put it simply, the people are hungry. thus collected are not only flawed, but Government’s inherent need to look What is surprising however is, the grossly misleading. good at least on paper, while failing optimistic data being printed out by For example, the per capita income miserably in practice, has made the the reel by the Central Bank and the worked out from the national income arena of census and statistics at best a Department of Census and Statistics. accounts is deceptive because it comedy and at worst, a tragedy. These departments use indicators such includes the income earned by both The need of the hour is for an as the Gross National Product, Per government and non-government independent data gathering Capita Income and Household Income institutions, which does not however organisation to be formed, or an and Expenditure Survey. These are filter down to the general public in any existing institution invited in to however far from indicative of the real meaningful form, while the Household adequately represent the country’s ground situation as the data gathering income and expenditure survey (HIES) economic situation, and for this methods employed to compile such since it does not take into account the organisation to work without undue statistics are seriously flawed. population of the country in its entirety, let or hindrance, so that the wool is no Firstly, owing to the ongoing war, is lacking in essential data. longer pulled over our eyes.

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less per capita income per year are defined as Rs.110,407 (USD 1,004) and monthly per capita low income countries, between USD 906 and income was Rs.9,201 (i.e. average income USD 3,595 are defined as lower middle income per person per month) . This is the realistic countries, between USD 3,596 and USD 11,115 measure of per capita income because it takes are defined as upper middle income countries into account the rise in prices, i.e. inflation. By Muttukrishna sarvananthan and over USD 11,116 are defined as high Principal Researcher income countries. In 2007, Sri Lanka had a per Furthermore, according to the latest Household Point Pedro Institute of Development, capita income of USD 1,608 per year, which Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) means it is a lower middle income country. undertaken by the Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) during 2006/2007 the Per capita income determined by the above mean per capita income per month was only er capita income is derived by dividing method is misleading, because it is worked out Rs.6,463 (i.e. the average income per person the Gross National Product (GNP) of a at current market prices. That is, Gross National per month) and the median per capita income Pcountry by the total population of a Product (GNP) at current prices (Rs. 3,538,630 was only Rs.4,043 (i.e. 50% of the population in country. Per capita income is an important million) in 2007, which is called the nominal Sri Lanka received less than Rs.4,043 per person yardstick for determining the development GNP, is divided by the total population (20 per month) stage of countries, viz. low, lower middle, million) in 2007. This gives an annual per capita upper middle and high income. There are income of Rs.176,932 (USD 1,608) and monthly All the foregoing figures pertain to most parts different income brackets used for the per capita income of Rs.14,744 (i.e. average of the country, but not the entire country. foregoing categorisation of countries by income per person per month) in 2007 There are, of course, district-wise variations in different international organisations over If we use the GNP at constant (2002) prices the above figures. The HIES was conducted time. According to the latest categorisation (Rs.2,208,137 million), which is called the real among a representative sample of households of the World Bank, countries with USD 905 or GNP, the annual per capita income in 2007 was in 19 out of 25 districts in the country. All the 04 If indeed we take the latest poverty data emanating from the HIES for granted, then why is that nearly 50% of the Sri Lankan population is receiving the poor relief payment of the Samurdhi poverty alleviation programme whilst only 15.2% of the population is deemed poor?

five districts in the North and Trincomalee poverty indices are also untrustworthy government departments and ministries district in the East were not covered by this because, accordingly, Eastern Province (10.8%) which are susceptible to political interference. survey. Therefore, it does not cover the entire has the second lowest incidence of poverty The Central Bank, which is statutorily supposed country. Sri Lanka’s national income accounts after the Western Province (8.2%) (see Table to be independent of the government, also do not fully cover the LTTE controlled 4). That is, while 15.2% of the Sri Lankan has become a pawn in the hands of the areas in the North. population was deemed poor in 2006/7, in the government under the present Governor. DCS Western Province only 8.2% and in the Eastern being a government department is even more There are disadvantages and advantages of Province only 10.8% of the population was susceptible to political manipulation. HIES over the national income accounts. Since deemed poor. Besides, according to the HIES HIES is a representative sample survey it does 2006/7, Ampara (10.9%) and Batticaloa (10.7%) For example, I have serious doubts about the not cover each and every household in the districts had the lowest incidence of poverty fourth quarter 2007 GDP growth figure (7.6%). country, which is a disadvantage. The advantage after Colombo (5.4%) and Gampaha (8.7%) My doubt is compounded by the negative net of HIES is that it covers the informal economy districts which is again unbelievable. remittance received (USD –63 million) during as well, in addition to the formal economy. December 2007, according to CB data, which is In the case of national income accounts it The Eastern Province poverty incidence data unusual because usually remittances are high covers only the formal economy, and informal is very misleading because the HIES was not during December due to the festive season. economy is not captured. Therefore, we could undertaken in one of the three districts in the Fudging of economic data appears to have argue that the national income accounts is an province, i.e. Trincomalee. Besides, HIES does become part and parcel of the development underestimation of the actual income of the not cover the internally displaced persons (IDPs) strategy of the present government. Inflation country. in welfare camps who are the most poverty data is another key suspect in the phantom stricken people. Further, I am curious to know growth figures churned out by the DCS The per capita income worked out from how the provincial and district poverty lines in and the CB. For example, compilation and the national income accounts is deceptive the East were worked out, because for the past dissemination of the Sri Lanka Consumer because it includes income of institutions as 17 years the DCS has not collected consumer Price Index (SLCPI) was discontinued after well (government, non-government, private, prices in the Eastern and Northern Provinces November 2007, because in November 2007 etc), which may not necessarily filter down that is essential for determining the district the point-to-point rate of change in inflation in to the household incomes. In contrast, HIES and provincial poverty lines. If indeed we take terms of the SLCPI hit a record 26.2%, and was captures solely the income and expenditure the latest poverty data emanating from the replaced by the new Colombo Consumer Price of households, which is the real disposable HIES for granted, then why is that nearly 50% Index CCPI (N) (2002=100). Moreover, there income of households and by extension of the Sri Lankan population is receiving the was no official announcement of inflation data individuals. Hence, significant part of the poor relief payment of the Samurdhi poverty in terms of the Colombo Consumer Price Index per capita income derived from the national alleviation programme whilst only 15.2% of the (CCPI 1952=100) for the month of April 2008, income accounts is ghost income as far as population is deemed poor? reportedly because it hit almost 30%. Why is households and individuals are concerned, the government hiding the economic reality which is reflected in the significant discrepancy Conclusion of the country from the masses? between per capita income derived from the two sources, viz. HIES and national income Until mid last year (2007) both the Central Bank Due to the foregoing apprehensions, it is accounts (a’ la Table 3). (CB) and the DCS used to prepare the national high time to entrust the collection and income accounts and most of the times it has dissemination of socio economic data to Poverty of Statistics been the case that DCS growth figures were an independent authority like the Central higher than that of the CB. Presumably due to Statistical Organisation (CSO) in India and The latest HIES 2006/7 reveal that only 15.2% this fact the CB has entrusted sole responsibility Great Britain. People of this country cannot of the Sri Lankan population is poor a dramatic for compilation of national income accounts trust the socio economic data of the DCS and drop from 23.0% in the last HIES 2002/3, which to the DCS. Due to the above noted surprises CB because they appear to be subjected to is unbelievable given the galloping inflation in the poverty figures derived from the HIES politicisation. since mid-2006 and international experiences it is high time to make the collection of in poverty reduction. The regional headcount socio economic data independent of the GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 05 By K.Godage

s is well known fighting a war instance at the Bellanvila Temaple in fact been taken over by Sinhala hundred and fifty thousand which Awithout good intelligence there are shrines dedicated to God Buddhist Kapuralas or priests who today singularly supports the LTTE is like fighting blindfolded. Skanda, God Vishnu, God Ishwara , officiate over the ‘poojas’. insurgency both financially and Almost two years ago it was Goddess Paththini. One has only mobilizes international support suggested to a very high official of to visit the Hindu Kovil at captains As stated earlier the God of for the effort despite the terrorism government that the government garden on a Saturday to see the Kataragama is undoubtedly the of the LTTE. We have and are still introduce ‘Community Policing, in Sinhaleese far outnumbering the most popular of all the Hindu paying a heavy price for the sins Wellawatte, Kotehena and Wattala Hindus attending the “Nawagraha Gods adopted as their own by of a few racist supremacists. Let us --- three areas generally inabited by Pooja” . , There are always shrines the Sinhala Buddhists; they flock first accept that every Tamil is NOT ourTamil citizens. I also informed dedicated to the benign Vishnu in their thousands not only in a supporter of the LTTE ---- there the official that there was a report , The powerful and benevelont August for the festival in honour are thousands people who may to government by an Irish Police Kandaswamy or Kartikiyan as of the God but on a daily basis like or dislike Mr. Anandasangaree expert Fleming, on the subject, he is known in South India or seeking his protection and favours but who share his commitment and also that the Japanese had this Kataragama deiyo by his Sinhala from him, they dance the ‘Kavadi’ to seek a negotiated settlemt by system (the Koban or local Police name (he is undoubtedly the most and even walk on burning embers peaceful means. post)) in their major cities where popular of them all); there are also to repay vows. Let us reach out to them to the Police befriended the people other Gods, Ganesh (the guardian Yes we the so-called Sinhala make them feel secure. Without and made crime prevention easy. deity of the NCP), Saman (the Buddhists have much in common a hearts and minds approach to It was pointed out that if the guardian deity of Sabraganuwa) with our Tamil brethren; it is only the minorities we cannot crush Police reached out to the people and Goddesses Pattini, Lakshmi, the language. The Sinhala Only the insurgency. In this regard it they in turn would feel that to Saraswathy and the much feared Act shut them out of economic must be realized that our fellow ensure their own security they Kali, considered the Goddess of opportunity and that was Muslim citizens who live amongst should keep the Police informed destruction in Lanka and also indeed the beginning. We need us should also not be alienated; I of any suspicious activity in their worshipped as the Goddess to work with them to end this accuse Muslim leaders too of not residential areas. The official’s Durga in North India where she insurrection. reaching out adequately to those reaction was “it’s a great idea, I is considered a benevolent deity. As stated earlier In Japan who have been affected by this shall speak to high authority and Hindus consider the Buddha as there is a Police post with two conflict. For example it is now 25 implement the concept”. the tenth avatar of Vishnu and the constables at the top of every years since thousand of Muslims The official was told that we Buddhists consider him to be the street they visit the people living were evicted from the Jaffna could arrange for the Buddhists protector of Buddhism. in the area~ befriend them and peninsula by the LTTE. They are still and Hindus to have common Visit Kataragama, Bellanwila, see where they could help and living under horrible conditions in ‘pujas’ at Bellanwila or at the Kovils Kuppiawatte temple near Ananda the people respond to them. The Puttalam, and neither their own in temples and bring the two College, the Lunawa temple and Police may be a law enforcement leader nor the garrulous politicians communities closer. “Great idea” one would relasize the extent agency but unlike the Services nor the government has relieved was once again his reaction but to which the sinhala buddhist they are expected to work with them of their misery. The same after two years “the great idea” has assimilated Hinduism. us citizens and relate to the could be said for the Muslims who appears to be dead in the water. Development of Seela, Samadhi community. There is no question suffered nom the Tsunami in the There is no question at all that and Pragna does not serve the that preventive action is the need Eastern Province. unless we reach out to the Tamil practical purpose to acquire of the hour, and this is possible Let us be proactive, reach people living in our midst we shall wealth health and prosperity in ONLY if our sources of Intelligence out to the Tamil people living not be able to counter terrorism in any tangible form here and now. is good and we therefore need to amongst us who have made the the city. The ‘Sinhala Buddhist’ is very much address this matter on an urgent south their home and have no A majority of Sinhala buddhist a beliver of the Hindu Pantheon. It basis. interest whatsoever in living in do have faith in Hindu deities. is only that they worship the same It is 25 years since what has Prabhakaran’s Eelam There is hardly a Buddhist temple Gods but at different temples or often been described as pogrom in the country which does not have places of worship. The only place of 1983. It was this horrible crime a ‘Devale dedicated to the deities where they jointly worship is at that has created the Tamil Diaspora God “Vishnu” and God “Skanda”. For Kataragama, where the shrine has consisting of almost seven

06 -Karunaratna Gamage. approximately. This quantity is produced by the produce the amount of seed paddy expected seed paddy farm owned by the Department in contrast to the previous seasons,” said Mr of Agriculture situated in Kaduruwela, Weerathunga. armers of most parts of the island have Polonnaruwa as well as by other registered Nearly 17,000 bushels of seed paddy are faced immense hardships as a result farmers. Palugasdamana Multipurpose Co-op being produced each season by the seed Fof the scarcity of seed paddy for them Society provides more than100,000kgs out of paddy farm of the Department of Agriculture to sow in this yala season. The Department this quantity in each season to farmers of the in Kaduruwela. But Chandima Jayasingha, of Agriculture attributes this scarcity to the area. T.G. Weerathunga, Chairman, Multipurpose Manager of the farm who is also the Assistant damage caused to the harvest by the heavy Co-op Society points out that however, the Director of Agriculture (seed) said that they rains during the last ‘maha’ season. Laboratory new institutes have not been able to produce have failed to produce more than 8,000 tests have revealed that most of the samples even 50,000 kgs of seed paddy. He attributes bushels of seed paddy for this season. They obtained from farmers registered for seed this failure to unfavourable climatic conditions also face immense problems when providing paddy were not fertile and it has become a which prevailed in the maha harvest season. the amount of seed paddy required by farmers problem for the Department of Agriculture “In every season we provide over 100,000 kgs for this season. too, when providing good quality seed paddy of seed paddy to the farmers. Palugasdamana According to Mr. Jayasingha as a solution to farmers. Co-op Society is in the fore front of supplying the Department of Agriculture has decided, good quality seed paddy and the farmers of the to purchase a certain quantity of seed paddy 150,000 bushels reduced to 50000 bushels area have confidence in us. But the heavy rains by identifying varieties from private cultivators that prevailed in during the previous season whose harvests have not been adversely The quantity of seed paddy produced in became an intense threat to our production. affected by rains. These purchases will be each season in Polonnaruwa which is one of As a result over several weeks the regenerative carried out after the relevant samples have the front line seed paddy producing districts factor of paddy faded. Only 40% of regenerative been duly examined. He said a sum of Rs. in the island, is said to be 150,000 bushels paddy remains . Consequently we failed to 300,000 has been earmarked for this purpose

GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 07 T.G.Weerathunga Chandima Jayasinghe R.P.Upali

and one kilograme of Nadu is expected to be in the cultivation of paddy approved by the era which needs to explore new ways to uplift purchased at Rs. 40/= per kg .and Samba at Rs. department. “Countries such as Japan and the production of our staple food may come 42/50 per kg. Korea have been successful in obtaining very in the guise of empty ears of corn instead of so The severe scarcity of seed paddy prevailing satisfactory harvests in consequence of using called golden ones. in Polonnaruwa, one of the front line rice and 100 % good seed paddy,” Mr. Upali said. seed paddy producing districts, has badly Fishing in troubled waters affects the other part s of the island as well. scarcity may be inevitable Some agricultural organisations have Good quality seed paddy. The damage caused by the rains may result resorted to capitalise on this opportunity of a in scarcity of food within the country along paddy shortage by selling paddy to farmers at It is well known that the use of low quality with an increase in the price if rice as well. rates between Rs. 1,400/= and Rs.1,500/= per seed paddy has been a major reason for the The only solution to the food crisis at bushel. What is unfortunate is that the farmer drop in harvest that we experienced recently. present is to uplift the paddy cultivation in does no have a powerful hand to take action According to R.P.Upali, Deputy Director of the country. The farming community claims against those who exploit them despite the Agriculture (expansion), it is only 20% of the that the consequences of the eruption of fact that there are so many personalities who total farming population that are engaged problems such as a scarcity of seed paddy in an hold ministerial positions in agriculture.

08 Melanie Manel Perera visit her husband who was working in Mannar. However she too was not given permission ccording to Government statistics, and remained at the Checkpoint, wondering about a quarter of the population in too. Except for one or two soldiers, most of the what she could do, and was left alone.” Athe Mannar district comprising mostly others spoke to us courteously.” During their three day tour, the group met of Tamils and Muslims, have been displaced. They said due to stringent inspection by the refugees who had been displaced from Arippu The residents have faced many a hardship due forces those who enter Mannar are directed and Silawatura areas as well as residents of to the civil war which has claimed a history to the register. There are two access routes to the Manthai West area, residents of Mannar, of twenty five long years. Of the five district Mannar. The A-30 Vavuniya-Mannar route and representatives of the fishing and business Secretariat divisions, three of these divisions the A-14 Medawachchiya-Mannar route. communities, chief organizers of local and are under governmental control and two are “We travelled from Colombo to Medawachchiya foreign non-governmental organizations, within terrorist controlled areas. by train. Permission is not granted to any Mannar sector Catholic clergy and the Mannar Due to the heavy fighting, travelling to Mannar vehicle arriving from the South to travel further Government Agent. is difficult and is permitted to those who are than Medawachchiya. A Father from there had Apart from the town of Mannar, they toured able to prove their identity. come to escort us. After travelling for one hour, the Naanattaan, Pesalai Kalimoddai areas In April this year a group of clergy of the Catholic, we reached the first Army checkpoint, that is and met the displaced people living there as Anglican and Methodist congregations and the Kattaiadampan Army check point and they well. “Most of the people in the Kalimoddai two laymen from the South entered Mannar. informed us that we could not be allowed to camp were those who had arrived from LTTE The following is what each of the participants travel further. They told us that, any one who controlled areas. They had reached Mannar in gathered from their visit. is not from Mannar would not be allowed to boats. Those who arrived had been sent to this The participants were Father Sarath enter Mannar. Although we decided to turn camp named Kalimoddai by the Army,” said Mr. Iddamalgoda, Baddegama Samitha Thero, back, after discussing this issue for close upon Fernando. Adding that the camp was infested Father Sathivel, and Rukshan Fernando, two hours in the searing hot sun, we were with poisonous snakes and posed a threat to Coordinator, Law and Society Trust. granted permission to enter Mannar due the people in the camps as no such medical to the intervention of the Mannar Bishop’s facilities existed in the area. Father Sarath Iddamalgoda of the Aglican Residence. council involved in organizing the trip said Young children who are the foremost objective was strengthened Alone at the Check point. acquiring an education by a Buddhist monk joining the trip. “Those soldiers of the army who could not go home “There were several people apart from our “We met a number of young children who to celebrate the Sinhala New Year were group. Some labourers who had come with the were doing higher studies and also studying overwhelmed with joy to see a Buddhist idea of finding jobs in Mannar had to turn back. at universities. They were worried that their monk. Their happiness brought us some joy There was also a woman who had come to education had been disrupted due to the GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 09 “People who live in refugee camps are imprisoned, economically, politically and socially. These camp dwellers are tired of all the pressures they have to face. These sufferings are not reported to the Government. Today, innocent people in the camps are affected mentally as well as physically. All their hopes and plans have been dashed and only despondency remains,” says, ex-parliamentarian Baddegama Samitha Thero.

from 8 am – 4pm. But, what the fishermen told us is that, even though they do go to the deep sea at in the morning there are no fish to catch. The reason being that, although the fishermen are banned from going to sea at night, Indian trawlers come to our seas and catch the fish.

Rev. Fr.Sathvel Rev. Fr.Sarath Iddhamalgoda Ven.Baddegama Samitha Thero Tired of all the pressures war. We also met, at the camp, teachers as Destroyed hopes “Another law that has been laid down for the well as government employees who had not fishermen, is that all the boat engines have to even received their salaries. At the same time More than 4000 people who live in the be handed over to the Navy camp by 6pm. we met, fishermen and paddy farmers whose Naanattaan camp, have been displaced due to These boats are in the custody of the Navy livelihoods had been destroyed by being an operation launched in the Musali area during until the following morning. These fishermen restricted to the camp and unable to earn any September of last year. It was revealed by the stated that, the fish they catch have to be sort of an income. We also met a young woman camp dwellers, to the group that twelve civilians taken through several Army Check points and who was engaged to be married. Although the had lost their lives during these operations and at each and every place they are subject to a dates for the wedding had been fixed the bride that although security forces had promised thorough inspection and as they do not get was not allowed to leave the camp.” them, before the commencement of the sufficient ice and time spent checking usually operation, that they would be able to go back leads to spoiling of the fish on a large scale,” Mr. Fernando revealed that, several people at to their homes within two or three days, now said Father Sathivel. the camp arrived at Government controlled 7 months have elapsed and they are still living “People who live in refugee camps are areas, from Tiger controlled areas, with the in the camps. imprisoned, economically, politically and objective of living a productive life, placing Fishing is the main livelihood of those in socially. These camp dwellers are tired of all the faith in the promises that certain people made Mannar. The group from the South had met pressures they have to face. These sufferings to them, but now they are disgusted of living with representatives of the fishing community are not reported to the Government. Today, and being imprisoned in these camps and had from Mannar as well as Pesalai and exchanged innocent people in the camps are affected they known that they would have had to live in opinions. Anglican Father Sathivel who joined mentally as well as physically. All their hopes camps like this, they would never have left. the trip commenting on the plight of the and plans have been dashed and only “It is quite understandable that what these fisherman said, “These fishermen face a number despondency remains,” says, ex-parliamentarian people want is not to be penned in like this in of problems. The most serious problem is that Baddegama Samitha Thero. a camp but to live with their relatives in various they have been prohibited from going to sea The venerable thero said, that soldiers have places. What they require are not dry rations, at night. Even the large net drag type of fishing been trained for battle and not to attend to but the ability live in freedom,” Mr. Fernando has been banned. They are permitted to do welfare work. They do not have any training said. their jobs, only in boats which have an engine regarding welfare activities in camps. If soldiers between 10 and 15 horse power. The other are appointed for this, they should be provided problem is that they are allowed to fish only with some training.”

10 “My uncle, grandfather and grandmother died after consuming “kassippu”. When my uncle died he was 24 years old. My Grandmother was 42 and my Grandfather was 45 when he died, and because of this I do not drink,”

Ravichandran - Ingiriya

amilies living in Ingiriya majority of the men and women driven by poverty turn to have been reduced to walking Ravanan Pushpalatha (29) is Fillicit liquor as a means of skeletons. Shivarani’s sister she too is surviving. The children languish at home uneducated as well and claims without any schooling and follow they are unable fall asleep at night, The quality of life for the 40,000 in the footsteps of their parents, unless they consume kassippu. people in and around the estates and become accustomed to “It was our mother who taught us of Perth, Anduru, Raigam and consuming alcohol and resort to to drink,” she says. “Now, we cannot Anduragala in Ingiriya are nothing stealing plantains or coconut from do without it. My elder sister and I to brag about. the nearby gardens and sell them both go to work on the estate. If we to earn money. do not drink a little in the morning, In some homes as many as five we cannot pluck the tea leaves. I families including the married Having not attended school and have not married legally although children live in the same house. being unable to write R. Shivarani I have a spouse and three children. These people have 10 or 12 (33) says, “I am married for the The children live with his mother children. They manage their daily second time. The previous man and he works as a labourer. expenses, on the money they earn died after drinking illicit liquor. by working on the estates and also Most people here are not legally Although A. Madhuraveeran by working as labourers. married. I pluck tea at the estate lives amongst these people he is while my husband plucks coconuts, someone who does not consume Most of the parents and even the to earn money. My husband has illicit liquor. children in the area are addicted two children from his previous to illicit liquor - kassippu which has marriage. We cannot send them to “My uncle, grandfather and plagued the lives of those in these school because we have no birth grandmother died after consuming families. While children in these certificates for them. I have a child “kassippu”. When my uncle died he estates suffer from malnutrition, the too who has a birth certificate.” was 24 years old. My Grandmother

GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 11 was 42 and my Grandfather Samurdhi Authorities have If a methodical plan is not was 45 when he died, and teamed up with the Social followed it is possible that because of this I do not drink,” Welfare Division and are in the this will become a massive says A. Madhuraveeran. “ I am process creating awareness social problem in the future,” legally married. I have not been among these families.” he said. to school either and can’t read. Chief Police Inspector, Adding that the attention However, I do have a national Chameera Thilakaratne, directed towards the identity card. My son is three Ingiriya OIC said many protection of these children and a half years and we are raids were conducted in have been overlooked to a considering sending him to a connection with this matter, great extent by their parents. Sinhalese school.” in conjunction with the This has also become one of national drive to reduce the reasons that the children Speaking on the plight of the alcohol consumption and are on the wrong path. people in Ingiriya, Secretary, taken into custody persons as M.G.G.F. Dharmasena said, well as articles and produced “I accept the fact that there in Courts. are many without national “To a great extent poverty identity cards living around and ignorance are the main the estates. Once, the Police causes for the consumption and the Grama Sewa Officer of illicit liquor. As the hawkers put into effect a special of “kassippu” get children to process to issue temporary participate in their business identity cards, I will make activities, the children arrangements to issue unknowingly get into the permanent identity cards.” habit of consuming liquor. A He said, “the Police who have plan is needed to deal with to take action regarding the this situation. Birth certificates increasing menace of alcohol or related documents should in the area. We have totally be prepared for these children suspended those who come to of school going age and office to carry out their duties, they should be directed to a after consuming alcohol. The vocational training institution.

“To a great extent poverty and ignorance are the main causes for the consumption of illicit liquor. As the hawkers of “kassippu” get children to participate in their business activities, the children unknowingly get into the habit of consuming liquor.

12 Melanie Manel Perera power of the Parliament weakened activities here should be carried Reverend Father Reid Shelton roundview’ held a and there were instances when the out independently. When we look Fernando discussion on the Government collapsed. into the background of elections Gimplementation of the 17th the need of an independent amendment with a few academics In actual fact the executive elections commission for the among those were senior lecturer presidency and the powers that Elections procedures is extremely of the Sinhala studies division of the come with it are good. However, we essential. university of Colombo Venerable have to decide on what is good or Agalakada Sirisumana Thero, well bad and its suitability to the person A constitutional council is essential known attorney S.G. Punchihewa who occupies the position. Of late, especially, when the President and and senior lecturer of the Colombo everything is being politicized far the Parliament, take decisions, Joseph Vaz Theological Seminary, more than is required, through against the opinions of the public Rev. Father Reid Shelton Fernando. these powers. It is apparent that and when the constitution has The main reason for discussing organizations which acted with laid down laws, in a way so that this issue is the limitlessness of the Venerable Agalakada integrity have been politicized as the President’s powers cannot be executive powers. The candidate Sirisumana Thero well. One example is the Police challenged and the public are left who succeeded at the Presidential who have become a mallet in helpless. What we require is an Election in 1994 promised that the hands of the politicians. independent constitution which she would limit the powers of The Defence Secretary is a close can control and a constitution the executive presidency which associate of the President. The which represents every sector and was passed in 1978, making use Police and the armed forces have one that can bring about a solution of the two third majority that was an important task in protecting the to the national problem. received in the 1977 elections and law and peace of the country, but Nonetheless, under a President bring about better governance. have now begun to act according who acts without any foresight and The then President promised to his requirements. is power hungry, using his powers that if she was elected to power, “The most significant period in The trust of the public has been needlessly, the country could be she would put “a full stop” to this the country’s political history was taken away from the Police. It dragged into a bottomless pit. executive system. However that when the Executive Presidency is the same with the Election Actually, this is why we needed a was limited only to her word. The was created after 1978 during the Commissioner’s duties. In actual constitutional council to change creator of this constitution which era of President J. R. Jayewardene. fact, all the Election Commissioners this state of affairs. However the declared ludicrous statements to who have held this office so far, amendments which were prepared the fact that not only a change in An executive president proposed have done their utmost to carry with the greatest difficulty were gender cannot be brought about, through the 1978 Constitution, out their duties within this large not built up. These are as yet to knew full well that no leader in in the backdrop of a changing election network successfully. be implemented because of a fear the entire world had the power Constitution meant there was We have a vast election network that following the implementation accorded in this. no possibility of implementing consisting of a number of polls there would be more of an any permanent policies and also such as, The Presidential Election, opportunity for people to interfere Hence, the Members of Parliament Members of Parliament, on their The Parliamentary Elections, in the powers of the President as who understood the possible personal agendas changed groups The Provincial Council Elections, well as the Parliament. destruction that could be caused as opportunists and as a result the Local Government Elections. The by this came forward to present

GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 13 an amendment that would bring made by the President are given people to implement their the number of vehicles, the about an essential change. In to appropriate people, they are authority was not in existence. manner in which the media should 2001, this amendment was passed appointments that are made Instead, what took place was conduct themselves during the with the agreement of all. This through close contacts of party that for a long time the system of time of an election, etc., and was in effect until 2006. Everyone politics. However, although, it authority remain in one place. everything else in connection with accepted the fact that there were is within this amendment, that Through this, Executive authority, the election. However the disaster shortcomings in it. The problem the chief appointments of the the Constitutional authority and of not establishing an Independent now is that the present government government are made by the authority of the Courts are all Elections Commission was seen nor the opposition want to President, it would be a requirement manipulated from one place, through the Elections in the East. implement the recommendations that these appointments have to the opportunity for the general Several serious allegations were included in this. be ratified by the Constitutional public to raise legal questions in made regarding this election. Council. So, it will not be possible connection with this, as well as the However, it would not have been See, even the people who talk for the President to appoint anyone freedom to do so is lost to them. necessary to make such accusations of a free and fair election do not of his own will. The President will had an Independent Elections want to implement the Elections have to make appointments under Subsequent to the dialogues Commission been established. Commission. All elections the recommendations of this that took place among various The High Commissioner would are conducted through the group, subsequent to assigning the people inclusive of political parties, have had the power to determine, Commissioner General. When power which is centered around newspapers and scholars it came the number of armed forces and declaring the results of the one person to another Council. to be highlighted that what was Police personnel who would be 2005 Presidential Election, the required in connection with this deployed for the Elections and if Elections Commissioner made a At the same time, the President’s issue, was an amendment to the there were armed persons how to request asking for the Elections powers which have been constitution. It was through this disarm them etc., and implement Commission to be implemented. substantiated by the Constitution of that the 17th amendment came these procedures. The other fact However, today in 2008, an 1978 can be restricted. It becomes to be. Through this amendment, was that, the National Identity election in the East was held under apparent that the impunity the it was proposed 07 commissions Card which was deemed to be the same Commissioner. If we President could also be limited. By would be appointed. Namely, compulsory was not taken into review the background since the creating independent commissions the Independent Elections consideration and as a result a commencement to the end of this and councils and by appointing Commission, Commission number of election malpractices election, a fact that can be well suitably qualified people, the for Human Rights, Bribery took place. Representatives at the construed is that, if this Election opportunity will arise for them to and Corruption Investigation polling booths were chased away was held under an Elections High carry out their duties in keeping Commission, Public Services and certain anomalies took place Commissioner that it would have with the law as well as the fact Commission, Police Commission as well. All of these factors would been far more impartial. that promotions cannot be given and Commission to determine have had an impact on the final according to the discretion of the restrictions. result and this was the retribution Implementing these amendments politicians and being evicted from for not having an Independent which have been passed with the their posts all of a sudden. Here, I A Supreme Court judge, at that Elections Commission. agreement of all, immediately, is can recall, that during the past, time, was appointed as the High what is essential today, in order when appointments irrelevant to Commissioner of Elections but as The Human Rights Commission to put a stop to the situation the law were made, certain persons this person was of a political belief is also another Commission of regarding, retaining of undated rejected the appointments. We not in keeping with her political timely value. During the past, resignation letters of the Members should respect and value that. This views, the former President this Commission, held inquiries of the Parliament and that there is is the perfect time, for intellectuals objected to the appointment. into arrests and disappearances power exceeding the power of the in this country to get together and This was a serious violation of but their deduction was that law and to limit such powers of the stand up and be heard, so that the the Constitution. Anyhow, this no one had disappeared and President. Today, no one is taking amendments are implemented. commission was not appointed at that there were no complaints into consideration the difference the time and the present Elections regarding disappearances. But, between the Executive and the Attorney -. S.G. Punchihewa Commissioner, implemented the question arises as to whether Constitution and do not act some of the powers of the Election people would go to lodge a accordingly. Everyone is interfering This 17th Amendment was Commission during certain complaint, if the people who go with the Constitution and making submitted because of the elections and that should be to make complaints disappear.The the country unstable, from every corruption and the irregularities appreciated. If the Independent devastation of not implementing angle. Therefore, how unfortunate that were on the rise, within Elections Commission had the amendments have spread is it that, the independency the then administration. Since been established, it would have throughout the country into of the Constitution has been the authorities had not been been considered as the head every field and the general public dishonoured? disseminated to each department of the Commission, the High have no voice and democracy is In reality, if the proposed in a formal manner and also due Commissioner of Elections who trapped in a disgraceful place. Not amendment is implemented to the fact that there was no state would have made all the decisions implementing these amendments, properly, the political intervention administrative structure where the regarding the period when the proves very well that there is no in the field of administration will authority was shared and where elections should be held, what proper governance and rightful decrease. Even if the appointments the ability/right for the appropriate manpower would be contributed, administration within the country. 14 Towards Creating a viable agricultural sector

mation, could be implemented The political aim of this venture of 508,372 hectares. uring the last five de- through a programme based on a was to create a self supporting The Paddy Lands Act of 1958 was cades there has been a study and recommendations sub- land owning class in the agricul- an example of government policy considerable emphasis mitted to the government in 1995 tural areas. Some were of the view which did not contribute to the Don the Agricultural sec- by a team of local scholars and that a large number of people agricultural development as ex- tor. Though it appears that there is representatives from the World in the upcountry lost their tradi- pected. Though, this act gave le- less of an influence of the agricul- Bank. tional land holdings due to the gal security to the tenant cultiva- tural sector in the Gross Domestic unfair land policies of the colonial tor; even at present, the traditional Product; agriculture represents Market and marketing problems period. During this time Marxists land tenure system is in existence. one fifth of the total output. One are the main constrains facing the disliked the creation of a success- This is due to the close relation- third of the work force is employed sector. There are a large number of ful land owning class. Accordingly, ship that existed among the pad- in the agriculture sector. small scale producers. A monopo- the accepted opinion during the dy land owners and the tenant Yet, the relative importance ac- listic or an oligopolistic nature is last few decades was that priority cultivators. This step which was corded to non plantation agricul- seen on the demand side. Hence, be given to the welfare of the rural implemented as a welfare policy ture is a dismal picture. every purchase is made with the community than formulating land measure, prevented the agricul- According to the present trends, maximum benefits being enjoyed policies. ture sector becoming a complete- there is a crisis in the local ag- by the traders; which is not passed Colonisation schemes, land ex- ly a market oriented enterprise. riculture sector that calls for a on to the consumer. tension schemes, distribution of Under these conditions the agri- revolutionary change to remedy land among the middle class, dis- cultural sector experienced a capi- or arrest this decline. More em- During the last few decades suc- tribution of marginal lands, youth tal shortfall. The lands which were phasis should be paid as to how cessive governments have had colonization schemes, highland acquired by the Government un- the present form could be trans- welfare oriented attitudes towards colonization and establishing der the land reforms policy were formed back into export oriented the public but not as an authorita- cooperative farms etc. are some less productive. The Corporative ventures, and to identify the nec- tive one intended to keep pace of the projects which were un- Production Institutes which were essary financial requirements to with advances in the field of sci- dertaken. Equality was a criterion formed at the governments’ ini- do so. ence. that was considered in identifying tiative were unsuccessful, due Land alienation and other allied problems of the people specifi- to poor management, excessive Agriculture in Sri Lanka consists services pertaining to agriculture cally in agricultural development intervention by the government of small scale production units, were given more as welfare as- during the post independent era. and the use of unskilled labour where more emphasis is on paddy sistance, under the close supervi- The concept of using personal etc. cultivation. Human resource are in sion of the government; as these discretion in taking decisions per- the form of family labour and not were very sensitive public issues. taining to the economic develop- The government that came into as paid labour. Production is main- Politicians and other officials in Sri ment of agriculture is more suited power in 1977 was of the view ly for home consumption and for Lanka felt that it was vital to solve only for intensive economic un- that agriculture development the local market. problems pertaining to agriculture dertakings rather than a participa- needed an entrepreneurial ap- There are no technological ad- since contribute to the economic tory approach. proach. Yet, government policy vance and sometimes, out dated development of the country. Thus, A large extent of land was distrib- was to allow the continuation of technology and modes of pro- the importance of developing the uted during the 1930 to 1990. One the existing pattern. Incentives in duction are adopted. Enterprise agricultural sector was accepted hundred and five irrigation devel- the form of tax concessions were management practises are ineffi- in principle as both a poltical and opment projects were completed offered to the private sector, but it cient as it is often carried out by a social imperative. The establish- by 1997. During this period the did not attract many investors as single individual. ment of colonies in the dry zone area under cultivation increased expected. was done with the fullest support by 104 percent. By 1993 - 114,666 Steps were taken to hand over The above mentioned transfor- of the government. families were settled in a land area the establishment of Settlement GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 15 Schemes once again to the pri- the producer and the consumer According to the agricultural tion agricultural activities. vate sector; but this too was un- from the cluthes of the middle- census of 1982, 31% of lands of successful due to various political man. Even with the attempts of Sri Lanka are under cultivation. In 1952, the extent under paddy reasons. The government which the government to develop the Around half of this extent is un- cultivation was 479,000 acres. This came to power in 1994 brought infrastructure; it failed to attract der major export crops. Thirty was increased to 930,000 by 1994. about policy changes for this the expected number of new one percent is under paddy and Between the period of 1950-1990 sector; but failed to prevent the comers to this industry. The gov- the balance 13% consists of other the area under irrigation facilities monopoly in the agricultural ernment also failed to develop a crops. Accordingly, exactly half of increased by 68 percent. marketing system, and to rescue suitable land market. the land area is under non planta-

Table 1 Material Gross Domestic Product and the Relative Component of Labour

Table 2 Composition and Growth of the Agriculture Sector 2

In 1963, the contribution of agriculture to the Gross Domestic Product was 32.1 %. That figure reduced to 17.0 % in 1998.

16 Table 3 Annul Growth of the Agricultural Gross Domestic Product -1960-95 ( At current market prices)

Percentage of annual economic growth

Period Agricultural Gross Domestic Gross Domestic Product

Product

1960-65 2.4 3.9 1965-70 3.8 5.2 1970-77 1.8 3.1 1977-84 4.1 5.5 1985-95 1.7 4.8

has increased, there is a relative increase in paddy production. During the last two decades, decrease of the income of the According to a critical discussion Thus the cost of the investment there has been a rapid decline in persons involved in agriculture. A it was inferred that agricultural and also the productivity is poor the agricultural productivity in the drop in the output per unit area lands should be allowed to form and it is necessary to bring about country. Relative to the total Gross is also seen due to continuous into larger extents. It is necessary a total transformation of the local Domestic Product, Agricultural cropping without any steps being to encourage the formation of agricultural sector. Gross Productivity is at a very low taken to sustain the soil fertility. Cooperative farms, Company It is clear that the present problems level. lands and to have land markets in this sector are due to the undue Though it is observed that the so as to assist the establishment emphasis that was made to bring There are a number of basic use of organic fertilizer and of larger farms. A single individual in social benefits to the rural problems that can be identified biotechnology is more beneficial is expected to take decisions masses, disregarding the essential due to the policies adopted in the for small land holdings rather regarding all aspects of enterprise economic considerations. Firstly, development of agricultural lands; than the advanced technology development, which are this sector should be made which were done on a welfare and agro chemicals; a reasonable practically impossible; as he will economically viable. Although basis. Accordingly, all benefits progress has not been made in not be competent in all the areas these steps could be politically from agricultural lands go to the this regard. concerned. disadvantageous they must be farming community, though a taken for the advancement of the large portion of the input cost There are shortcomings in the Paddy production has increased sector. is born by the government. A methodology and process significantly during the last few system in the form of a tax levy adopted to protect the small decades under the agricultural (This article is based on a should have been introduced by scale farmer from the fluctuations development programmes. But the research paper by Dr. O.G. the government. The government prevailing in the market for their cost of irrigation and colonisation Dayaratna Banda- Senior finds revenue from productive inputs and outputs. Markets and projects is at a level which exceeds Lecturer of Economics - sources to meet these expenses. marketing are the main constraints the benefits that reaped from an University of Peradeniya) This distorts the normal marketing facing the agricultural sector. system. Crop diversification too does not occur in a normal Though most of the children of the manner, as paddy is considered as rural farming communities do not the main crop. choose farming as their vocation, there is a tendency for the land Non availability of a labour force holdings to get divided into with a fixed wage structure and smaller potions. This too is a result the high risk involved in paddy of the small scale agriculture not cultivation and the non availability becoming a capitalistic enterprise. of a proper land market due to the According to the Upcountry prevailing legal system, which Peasantry Commission Report further strengthens pre-capitalistic 85% of the aswaddumized lands systems ; has prevented the in Matale, 77% in Badulla and 75% development of the agricultural in Nuwara Eliya have undergone sector to a desired level. fragmentation by 1997. This is due to generations being dependant Though the material income on the original land allocations. GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 17 UNICEF supported Tangalle Water Supply Scheme completed

ater is the source of all life. Millions water problem. The hardships they had to supplement the raw water supply. The laying of years ago, the first forms of life undergo are inexpressible…… with women of 42 kilometers of pipeline for transmission Wslowly crawled their way out of sometimes having to trek e almost kilometer and distribution is also included. immense oceans and began to adapt to life in search of water….. and now, after 54 on land, in much the same way, human beings years, thanks to the tsunami, , it has become Tangalle is a tsunami hit area with a limited spend their first months ensconced in water, possible to provide safe drinking water to the number of water sources to provide safe and in testament to these facts, two thirds of people living in these areas – Seenimodera, drinking water. The existing facility has been the entire world is made up of water. Kadurupokuna, Hunapuruwa, Unakuruwa, in operation since 1953 and provides and an How then is it possible that in today’s Polommaruwa, Palapotha , Pallikodawa, Sitin intermittent supply of water less than 24 hours world, with all our development, modern amaluwa,Kambussawela,Tangalle and Beliatta a day. The lack of fresh water resources along conveniences and luxuries, that so many of our AGA’s divisions. the coastal belt has for many years been a country’s people have little or no access to safe major constraint in providing drinking water to drinking water, and tragically, that so many are Construction work of the Tangalle Water the people of the area. dying due to this very cause. Supply Scheme in the South of the country In Hambantota and Tangalle, for example, has recently been completed and tests have people trek many kilometers daily in search of proved successful, while the Tirukkovil Water The 18 month Tangalle project, costing water. Many of them resort to drinking un- Supply Scheme is making steady progress. nearly US $ 10 million is due to be sterilised water from roadside taps or streams, The 18 month Tangalle project, costing nearly commissioned shortly. The project water which from time to time unbeknownst US dollars 10 million is due to be commissioned entails increasing the current capacity of to them carries the deathly cholera or hepatitis shortly. The project entails increasing the 2500 cubic meters to 6500 cubic meters diseases. current capacity of 2500 cubic meters to 6500 thus enabling a total output of 9300 It is in view of this that UNICEF, which works in cubic meters thus enabling a total output of cubic meters per day. 52,000 persons over 150 countries in the areas of water supply, 9300 cubic meters per day. 52,000 persons will will soon have access to safe drinking sanitation, health care, education and nutrition soon have access to safe drinking water and water and this number is expected to among others has successfully collaborated this number is expected to increase to 65,000 increase to 65,000 in 2025. with the National Water Supply and Drainage in 2025. Board to initiate and construct several schemes The main components of the project include : for the provision of a sustainable supply of safe the rehabilitation of existing treatment plants drinking water to tsunami affected families in and construction of a new Treatment Plant the tsunami hit areas of Hambantota, Ampara at Nalagama, ensuring the extension of the and Tangalle. existing water supply to Nalagama, Palapotha, The National Water Supply and Drainage Beliatta and Hathbodiya areas, construction of Board’s Hambantota Regional Manager, Mr. four new reservoirs at Palapotha, Hathbodiya, RKLD Soysa, says “ .. I have been here for the Nalagama, Tangalle town and Beliatta. past nine years and know fully well the travails Developing an additional water source of the people because of the severe drinking by building a new bund at Navayanvila to Quality assurance

UNICEF works in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive and progress from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water supply and sanitation, quality basic education for all…… boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.

18 Monaragala Distric

he Monaragala District is the largest district in Sri Lanka, Twith a land area of 7,133 square kilometres. It is one of the two districts of the Uva Province. The total population of the District is approximately 420,000. The Monargala District is considered to be one of the poorest districts in Sri Lanka economically. The district population comprises 94% Sinhala, 2% Tamil, and 4% Muslim and other. Bibila, Monaragala, Madulla, Medagama, Siyambalanduwa Badalkumbura, Wellawaya are the main towns in the district.

Economy as teak – is transported direct who work in the public sector. to Colombo, and consequently Banks and Hotels In the Monaragala District, the industries like furniture-making, majority of people depend on which are further down the Mostly government banks, such agriculture. Paddy is the main value chain, are limited and as the Bank of Ceylon and the agricultural product, followed undeveloped. Tourism is not People’s Bank, have branches in by vegetables and grain. The a significant source of income all the main towns in the district, Monaragala District also grows generation in the district. Other while the Commercial Bank and and processes large quantities of than in agriculture, the workforce Sampath Bank have branches in cane sugar, notably in the Pelwatta is employed in carpentry, and the Monaragala Town. Amongst area. The Pelwatta Sugar factory masonry, often on construction the private banks, only Hatton has provided many employment sites in Colombo. The district also National Bank has a presence opportunities in the district. has a considerable number of in most of the towns in the Additionally, the Department people who have joined either the Monaragala District. Loans have of Agriculture supports people Sri Lankan Army or Navy. Another been granted to government working in plantations, and has segment of people are self- servants, as these workers are able enabled them to sustain their employed, and various cottage to offer the banks relative security livelihoods, and to sell their crops industries can be found in the on their investment, but have at reasonable prices. Timber is one district, although opportunities not been granted to many in the of the main natural resources in for employment in the private agricultural sector owing to the the district. Unfortunately, the sector are negligible. Finally, there perceived higher risk of recovery. majority of the timber – such are a significant number of people The Bank of Ceylon is an exception,

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Compiled by the Regional Support Unit of their homes afraid to venture out to their major resource in the district The Business for Peace Alliance schools.

20 Recognising the long term benefit and opportunity afforded by the programme, investment and donations have been received in terms of funding, and of people’s Mohammed Arshad who’s time and expertise. now studying at St. Thomas College. Mount Lavinia getting instruction about the placement test

Unique scholarship programme for under privileged children

t the start of 2008, set of criteria, including academic On the basis of the interviews, and outside Sri Lanka, acting The Business for excellence, and attributes which and a medical check up, a final through a sense of individual and Peace Alliance (BPA) separated out those children who six students – three boys and corporate social responsibility. Alaunched ‘Learn & might have the potential – with three girls from across the three Recognising the long term benefit Lead’, a pioneering scholarship the right education, guidance and districts – were selected for entry and opportunity afforded by the programme designed to provide support – to become the leaders in the schools in May. As part of programme, investment and quality education to bright of tomorrow. the programme, a comprehensive donations have been received in underprivileged children with range of support has been terms of funding, and of people’s perceived leadership potential Following the initial short- provided. This includes the time and expertise. School fees from regions affected by poverty listing, 21 candidates were provision of Guardians – being have been raised through the and conflict. invited to Colombo at the end local Colombo families, who are generosity of private donors, of The programme was established of April for in-depth interviews taking on the pastoral care and the Sri Lankan diaspora, and of as a public service initiative in with an acknowledged panel responsibility for the children, on international NGOs, whilst BPA is collaboration with a broad base of educational experts. During behalf of their parents, during term indebted to a range of individuals of stakeholders, and steered by a the long weekend, candidates time – groups of peer mentors for providing support in kind – too Committee of eminent persons were shown round St. Thomas’ within the schools themselves, diverse to name – without whom representing academic, civic, and College and Ladies College to support the children adapting this programme could not have commercial fields. – the two schools of excellent to and integrating into their new succeeded. academic repute, which have very environment, and the provision Working in close collaboration with generously agreed to participate of uniforms, books and other As this article is being published, regional Chambers of Commerce, in the programme and make equipment necessary for the six deserving children from less educational authorities and places available for students children to have all that they need privileged backgrounds have schools, applications were sought – and met with the Principals and on their first day at school. commenced a course of study from boys and girls who had existing students. The applicants which will culminate in a first class recently completed their O/level also participated in a broader The whole programme has education, and with the potential studies in Anuradhapura, Badulla itinerary of events, designed to been made possible through to go on and give back to their and Trincomalee. Applications develop a rapport between the the extraordinary generosity of communities and their country in were assessed by an independent group, and to prepare them for public and private organizations terms of intellect and leadership. committee against a common life in Colombo. and individuals, both within

Regional business leaders visit Australia to network with biz community of Lankan origin

group of regional business leaders attention should be paid to the development presented as options for collaboration. of the Business for Peace Alliance of areas outside Colombo with active regional A(BPA), visited Australia recently on an involvement. The private sector can play The BPA is collaborating with International economic development promotion mission, an important role to address such regional Alert to carry this programme forward. in order to address imminent social issues and structural disparities and to strengthen such as rural poverty and youth exclusion in recovery capacities in all parts of the country. Sri Lanka, amongst the business community of Sri Lankan origin in Australia. This visit was The purpose of the visit was to network with facilitated by International Alert. the business community of Sri Lankan origin. Presentations and meetings were held in The regional business leaders represented Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. different geographical clusters in Sri Lanka and were accompanied by corporate businesses The visit has opened a window of opportunity and other resource persons. for Sri Lankan business people living in Australia to forge trade links with regional business Considering that 51% of Sri Lanka’s GDP is people in Sri Lanka. In addition, several from Colombo and the balance 49% from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives the rest of the country, it is clear that greater of the business community in Sri Lanka were GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 21 Text and Photographs – Hiran Priyankara Jayasinghe lands, were given a two acre land per family in an area in Electricity Board e donated our lands evicted, had to be resettled in a close proximity to Nirmalapura. Engineer in to the Thermal Power housing scheme constructed in However, the walls of the houses charge of the WStation. But the the Maampuriya, Nirmalapura have begun to crack and the Government cheated us,” areas, through the intervention doors and windows are in a housing schemes lamented the crowd who of the Minister of Power and dilapidated condition. construction, were gathered near the main Energy, John Seneviratne.. At the same time, the officers in accepted the entrance of the Norochcholai charge of this housing scheme fact that there Coal Power Plant that was being The Electricity Board said the cost had to replace the timber used constructed, in the scorching of each house was Rs.1.2 million. for the roof of the houses with were many sun holding their children. These houses consist of a living new timber as they were infected shortcomings room, two bed rooms, kitchen with termites. in the housing In March last year, the and a toilet each. In addition, Even the furniture provided has Government, relocated residents a well was also constructed on been built using a low quality project and said from the Naarakkaliya and the land which was 20 perches timber and has been attacked higher officials Paniadiya areas in order to in extent. by termites as well. should be construct the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant. They acquired close Likewise, every house was Last weekend when residents contacted for a to 300 houses and as a result supplied with electricity. And arrived to clear their lands, men comment. they had to evict 68 families each house was promised a who arrived in vans assaulted living in this area. television set and electrical them and warned them not to home appliances. These people return claiming ownership of These people who were thus who were deprived of their such lands.

22 Sananayake Vishvanadan Lionel Lalitha Kalaivani Nageshwari Anthony

Subsequently, they began their Power Station to be constructed “We have not received any of the protests at the front of the believing that the Government facilities that we were told would Kalpitiya District Secretary, Norochcholai coal power plant. will provide us with all facilities. be given to us. In addition, the M.H.M. Riyaldeen expressing his As the approach road in front of However the houses that were beds, tables and chairs that were views on the situation said, “The the entrance to the Coal Power constructed for us are in a very given are infested with weevils. lands that were given to these Station was blocked for about bad state. Its because the authorities are Nirmalapura residents belong to three hours, vehicles entering Although we informed the cheating us that we decided to two District Secretariat divisions. and leaving the Power Station authorities of the shortcomings protest at the Power Plant,” she That is, Kalpitiya, Mundalama. We premises were unable to move. of the houses, we have not yet said. have paid compensation for the received any positive response,” land belonging to Kalpitiya and Finally, the Officer-in-Charge he says. Ms. P. Lalitha finalised the acquisition. However, of the Kalpitiya Police Station, “Although we lived at Naarakkaliya we have not yet finalized the Inspector Lakshman Ranwala Anthony Murdhas in cadjan thatched houses, we payment of compensation for Arachchi arrived at this location “The Power Station acquired, were happy. Today, when it rains, the land at Mundalama. I feel and following a discussion arrived more than 02 acres of my land our houses get wet, as if we have that the previous owners of these at an agreement. GroundView with more than 200 coconut been caught in a flood. The tiles lands, would have threatened also caught up with some of the trees I had. But we received a land that have been fixed to the roof the Nirmalapura residents. We areas residents who came out to with only mountains of sand. It are poor and the rain seeps in. In sort out this matter regarding the protest. will cost more than two hundred addition, the walls of the houses land,” he said. thousand rupees to bulldoze the are cracked,” she says. Secretary of the Community land. I decided to start clearing Electricity Board Engineer in Development Society of Daluwa, the land last week when a group Ms. R. Nageshwari charge of the housing schemes Maampuriya, Nirmalapura, of persons who arrived in a van, “There is no place to even follow construction, Mr. Bamunawala, Lourdhu Maatha – Lionel pulled me away and assaulted our religious beliefs, in this accepted the fact that there Warnakulasuriya me. We face uncertain situation housing scheme. So, we take part were many shortcomings in the now,” he said. in religious activities in a small housing project and said higher “We moved out, losing all our place constructed out of cadjan,” officials should be contacted for houses and land allowing the Ms. Kaleyivani she, says. a comment.

GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 23 Text and Photographs “Gas is produced by using made so much easier due to the Karunaratne Gamage the dung from the cattle shed,” bio-gas unit that was constructed explains Mr. Polduwa. “Gas is in the garden. available in order to enable us to mid the rising prices bio-gas through a simple bio- use it for anything while cooking “Prior to this, we were only of fuels a group of gas unit constructed within the three meals. I earn an income involved in paddy farming. Three Afarmers in Medirigiriya, compound. from only two milk cows. I collect years ago, the Mahaweli authority Polonnaruwa, have found about Rs. 9000 once every 15 got us to join the project of rearing alternative means of fuel M.S. Polduwa (52) a resident of days. I get this amount in addition milk cows. Now, I have three generation using raw cow-dung, Viharagama who rears a few milk to the income made from paddy good variety cows. It is about a hay and branches of leafy trees cows in order to supplement their farming.” year since we began producing to produce bio-gas for their income from paddy farming told bio-gas. Now, I do the kitchen household needs. us that the bio-gas unit has made H.M. Yasandhawathie work with ease, without getting things easier in the kitchen of the Kumarihamy (48) is a mother spattered with soot and dirt. The Mahaweli Authority has house. of one residing in Maha provided the guidance for the Ambagaswewa. She too, states M.A. Jayasekera (57), a resident farmers on how to produce Producing the gas that her daily activities have been of Yudhaganawa Irrigation works

24 Junction uses hay as the raw material for his eight to eight and a half months continuously bio-gas unit. And says, that producing bio gas without any problem. Then the decayed raw “Now we have more than enough gas. for the kitchen is a very simple task. material is removed and it is re-filled. What is We cook three meals and boil water and yet removed is also a very good organic fertilizer.” we have more than enough gas left over. We “An eleven and a half foot deep pit with a are now considering, earning an additional nine feet diameter is constructed out of bricks. Using gas was only a dream before this, income through this gas, by preparing some What is packed into the pit is about a ton for the farmer folk of these distant, deprived foods, such as hoppers and string hoppers for or a ton and a half of hay, 200 kilogrames of villages with many hardships in Medirigiriya. sale,” said S.K. Amara (37). raw cow-dung, about 200-300 kilograms of It is a cause for real pleasure to see that the giniseeriya branches. Another pit is required. It gas cooker which was a tool of, the urban and A fertile garden plot at home is in this pit, four feet deep with a diameter of partly urban dwellers’ kitchens, making work using organic fertilizer seven feet,that the gas collects and builds up easier for the housewives of these farming pressure. We obtain gas from this for a period of villages. She also said that, she has set up a fertile

Polduwa M.A.Jayasekara Yasadawathi Kumarihami S.K.Amara

GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 25 garden in her compound, by using the addition to the paddy farming which organic fertilizer which is discarded is common in these areas. Especially from the bio-gas unit which uses raw rearing of milk-cows, cultivation of materials such as hay, raw cow-dung flowers, cultivation of subsidiary crops and leafy branches. is foremost among them. It is about two years since we promoted the “Around hundred plantain plants production of bio-gas. We specifically have been cultivated in the compound chose those farmers who were rearing of the house. In the vegetable plot, milk-cows. We provided more than there is almost everything including 50% of the cost required to construct brinjals, bitter gourd, snakegourd, a bio-gas unit through the Mahaweli Kumara Ubaya green chillies, long beans. We use only Authority. Now, these people are the organic fertilizer. We do not use successfully maintaining their bio-gas any chemical fertilizer,” Amara, says. units. At the same time, there is a big saving and it is a pleasure to see that It was Kumara Ubhaya Kalyana, housework is done with ease,” Mr. the Resident Project Manager of the Kalyana said. Medirigiriya Mahaweli Authority who told us that, of the cost of Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 40,000 required to construct such Gas at a lower cost a unit, a large amount is borne by the In an era, where raw materials such Mahaweli Authority. as hay are going to waste and being destroyed in paddy fields, this effort by More than fifty percent of the the farmers of Medirigiriya to produce costs gas at a very low cost for their domestic “We have promoted farmers to needs is an achievement. take to various sources of income in

26 SOCIAL INTEGRATION THROUGH BUSINESS (SIB)

Alert Sri Lanka’s Pilot Project with Regional Business Chambers

ocial Integration through are currently underway with few such SIB activities. Business (SIB): Alert Sri reaching completion. In order SLanka’s Pilot Project with to facilitate the implementation Batticaloa: Bridging Ethnic Regional Business Chambers of these pilot CSR measures, Cleavages by Addressing Alert is also conducting Common Problems As an important measure additional in-depth workshops towards improving peace with the regional Chambers to Batticaloa is an eastern district building capacities of the increase their understanding with severely fragmented Tamil regional small and medium on CSR and peacebuilding. polity, that also challenged size business sector, Alert Sri The events will also be LTTE dominance, than in any Lanka is supporting Business instrumental to announce the other Tamil speaking area. Chambers to initiate CSR pilot availability of seed-money for The Muslim polity here has measures to actively improve small CSR pilot activities, and strained due to lack of proper inter-ethnic and community the opportunity of an award leadership. The intercommunity relations within their respective ceremony for the best CSR and relationships between the districts. Such pilot projects peacebuilding ideas developed Tamils and the Muslims too has can also be instrumental in by the participating Chambers been affected severely. The SIB increasing understanding of towards the end of 2007. project here carried out by the the peace building potentials Batticaloa chamber enables of local businesses and To enable implementation both Tamil and Muslim traders to strengthen respective of the SIB pilot projects in a to come together and discuss sensitization and training Conflict/context sensitive and the common issues faced by efforts on CSR by providing sustainable way, a training the traders such as taxation, practical opportunities for on Institutionalising Conflict ineffective communication Chambers to engage in this Sensitivity and Do-No-Harm with the local authority etc. field. As the CSR concept is principles to all SIB project In a deeply divided place like often difficult to conceptualize implementers both at the Batticaloa, this intervention at the level of small and regional staff level as well as will create a good interaction medium size businesses in at a higher level for the Boards between both communities. the Districts, participants of an of Directors are carried out in-house planning workshop simultaneously. “Giving legal recognition to proposed the promotion of the small business,” is part of social integration through Promoting social integration the SIB work that is underway business (SIB) as the main focus and inclusivity through here. Batticaloa chamber of the program. different activities from an initiated this project with the integral part of the SIB project. support of GTZ to empower As such eight such pilot projects The Following are examples of the small entrepreneurs by

GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 27 giving training and material activities to Muttur, a Muslim and peacebuilding. support. This project formed majority area, to Kanthale a around 15 nuclear groups in Sinhalese majority, to Kinniya the district. Alert’s SIB project and Kuchchaveli (where there Matara : Working Together in Batticaloa is supporting this is a mix of Tamil and Muslim with Local Academia effort by registering them. traders). Some awareness The chamber has successfully raising programmes about Matara chamber (in the South) completed the preliminary the services provided by has also launched a program work to register small business the chamber to business linked to the Career Guidance groups (nuclear groups) under communities were carried out Unit, Ruhunu University. This the Company’s Act, in its efforts in those areas. Such activities programme was intended to to strengthen small scale are expected to positively create youth and business business groups. Eventually, impact on the Sinhala-Muslim dialogue. This opportunity these small companies will membership. An improved enables graduating students to become members of the relationship between the explore job opportunities with chamber. This new inclusion different ethnic groups that the private sector. has helped widen the chamber is facilitated through these network. workshops would allow for The Chamber here is working greater negotiation and conflict with the Ruhuna University The Batticaloa chamber’s management opportunities (Conflict studies centre) on SIB project has also carried when faced with precarious a research to identity factors out one workshop with the situations that threaten peace that promote ethnic tension participation of Muslim and and security (as was the case in the district. As the business Tamil traders to discuss some in April 2007 when a market community believed that of the common issues that massacre took place). the prevailing ethnic tension affect their business such between the Sinhalese and as problems of taxation etc. Trincomalee chamber the Muslims in this Southern Workshops of this nature were conducted 10 Workshop District has a negative impact organized after a long time in conflict affected and on the business the research in Batticaloa as the business marginalized areas to make carried out by the University community remained divided a strong link with the traders’ attempts to understand the deeply along the ethnic lines. associations and business roots causes of region specific This effort will also pave ways people in those areas. As a tensions. to bring small business into the result of this project 53 traders chamber membership outside Trincomalee town The Research is almost reaching obtained the membership completion. University from the chamber. students who are involved in Trincomalee: Expanding the research were trained on Chamber Services to Conflict Expansion of chamber activities research methodology and Affected and Marginalized has integrated businesses from survey methods, under this areas all the locations. At the same project. So far, two Focus Group time, people from different discussions were completed The Trincomalee chamber, in ethnic background have and data is being analysed. the east, which is currently become members and were predominantly Tamil, has taken encouraged to become active Through this project, both steps to extend membership within the various committees the Matara chamber and to Sinhala and Muslim to promote inclusivity among Ruhunu University understood communities to promote different ethnic groups. the importance of working solidarity under its SIB project. together. As the expertise of (The activities of Trincomalee The above example shows one institution can compliment chamber was limited to the multitude and multi- the other (regional business and Trincomalee town area only dimensional ways in which local academia). The chamber before the initiation of the the regional chambers have has initiated a few activities project). begun their involvement in with the Management and regional CSR activities, many Arts faculty to link graduates to In order to achieve this, of which are oriented towards employment opportunities in the chamber expanded its promotion of social integration the area.

28 The objective of the project is to educate rural youth on available opportunities and direct them towards the state owned vocational training institutes that are most of the time offered free of charge. It has been identified that the lack of knowledge about these institutes and their services is one of the reason that prevent rural youth from accessing them. The project also provides career guidance to youth.

The project activities aim environmental problem in the Wayamaba (Kurunegala): to build bridges between town area. Huge amounts of Addressing Social Problems youth and vocational training garbage disposed of every institutes which is a necessary day by different traders and This district which is centrally social integration activity here. households in Vavuniya and located records highest Mannar towns was causing unemployment rate in Sri Badulla: Facilitating the social disharmony and much Lanka. Wayamba also has one Pursuance of Education distress. Among them, the of the highest numbers of waste dumping of small and youth employed in the armed The Badulla chamber, for medium hotels was significant. forces. The Wayamba Business example is promoting an Chamber through an SIB project educational programme Vavuniya and Mannar has intervened to address this under this category along with chambers’ under the SIB project social issue through its social capacity development training facilitated dialogue between integration project by initiating for chamber members. As hotel owners and farmers activities to provide alternatives support for education is also in their respective districts so that business can convince a compelling need in this hill and collaborated with some youth from Wayamba that district, that is most backward government departments such viable employment is available in education, the business as the Divisional Secretariat should they develop the right chamber is working closely and Pradeshiya Saba to address skills. This project works with with a local organization this environmental issue. This Vocational training institutes Modern Educational Estab- is another case in point where that are in the district and youth lishment for Guruthalawa Area successful outcome in terms from rural areas with limited (MEEGA) to better prepare of government and business economic opportunities. GCE (O/L) students to face the sector activities linkage was examination by conducting possible in addressing a social The objective of the project number of crash courses. issue. is to educate rural youth on This will enable the Badulla available opportunities and chamber to build a good This process has provided direct them towards the state relationship with MEEGA which farmers with the knowledge owned vocational training is liaising with many educational to convert waste products into institutes that are most of the institutions in offering courses fertiliser and has also helped time offered free of charge. It that are otherwise not available them immensely in their own has been identified that the in schools. Both MEEGA and vegetable cultivation where lack of knowledge about these the Badulla chamber are the fertiliser is used. institutes and their services is in the process of planning one of the reason that prevent projects that address some of One of the successful rural youth from accessing the challenges faced by the outcomes of the project is the them. The project also provides students from the rural village linkage created between the career guidance to youth. and plantations. business chamber and the government institution in the So far 3 such awareness two districts. The Vavuniya and programmes were conducted Vavuniya and Mannar: Mannar chambers work closely with the participation of Addressing the with their respective local 120 youth. This project also Environmental Pollution environmental authority and provided an opportunity for local government bodies in Wayaba chamber to build a The SIB project in Vavuniya their town under this project to strong relationship with the and Mannar (two northern carry out the garbage disposal vocational training institutes. districts) address the issue of issue successfully. GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 29 Practitioners Course on Social Integration through Corporate Social Responsibility

or the first time in Sri engage in planning and on CSR and social integration Lanka, Social Policy evaluating actions and impact from Sri Lanka; Conflict FAnalysis and Research as per Sri Lanka specific CSR Sensitive CSR; Social Issues Centre (SPARC), Faculty of Arts, needs. of CSR in Sri Lanka; Planning University of Colombo offers The programme is particularly of Strategic CSR for Social a three-months’ Practitioners relevant for those working at integration and Peace Building Course with a Social Science CSR Units of corporate sector etc. Perspective on Social organizations to develop Faculty comprises eminent Integration through Corporate expertise and a career in national and international Social Responsibility (CSR), managing critical CSR issues academics and guest lecturers. beginning January 2008. in this fast-growing field in This certificate course is The certificate programme the corporate sector. It has conducted by the Social Policy analyses and evaluates specific relevance to those Analysis and Research Centre complex factors contributing seeking to develop their own (SPARC) at the University of to good CSR practices of CSR programme for their Colombo. The Centre was private sector industries, companies. established in 2004 in the especially in the Sri Lankan The certificate course consists Faculty of Arts. The Centre context where more focused of 5 modules including undertakes research, training, Conflict Sensitive CSR is presentations, written reports, teaching and advocacy in areas expected to give a new critical reflections, lectures, related to Social Policy and dimension aiming particularly tutorials, panel discussions Social Development. to support companies’ and workshops coupled with contribution towards social directed reading and research integration through CSR for based assignment on ‘Planning social stability and peace of Strategic CSR for Social building. Integration and Peace Building.’. It also aims to introduce Certificates will be awarded various components which to successful candidates who comprise socially responsible have attained stipulated level behaviour of companies of participation in lectures and to positively respond to Sri completed the assignments Course details can be obtained from Lankan social conflicts such based on field work. as structural discrimination, Some of the main areas regional disparities, gender covered in the course are Ms V Vathsaladevi discrimination, youth exclusion, as follows: concepts and Coordinator Training poverty etc in a conflict/ understanding of CSR; context sensitive way. Its aim principles, values, ethics of Social Policy Analysis & Research Centre (SPARC) is also to provide a framework CSR;CSR and peace building; Faculty of Arts, University of Colombo for external and internal CSR CSR and social integration: Best PO Box 1420, Colombo 3. best practices, to constructively practices: selected examples Tel: 2589382 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmb.ac.lk/sparc

30 Prof. S.T.Hettige Director, (Hony), SPARC, Faculty of Arts, University of Colombo and Dr. Markus Mayer, Country Director, International Alert and Prof. Nira Wickremasinghe, Dept. of History and International Relations, addressed the participants at the inaugural session.

First batch of student participants from CSR units of leading companies at the inaugural session held at the Faculty Board Room, Faculty of Arts, University of Colombo in January 2008

GROUNDV IEW MAY - JUNE 2008 31 UNICEF supported Tangalle Water Supply Scheme completed

Samiru Udayanga, 8 yrs old, crosses a temporary bridge over the stream that feeds the Tangalle Water Plant. Samiru’s father was killed in an industrial accident 6 months ago. One worry the boy will not have is access to fresh clean water.

Sedimentation tanks begin to fill at the new treatment plant

Treated water tank at the new treatment plant

A group of boys gather water from a well in Tangalle. In just a few short weeks, this time consuming and costly daily chore will just be a memory. 32

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