The government will soon bring about a political solution through the APRC, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said yesterday. He said history had proved that the ethnic conflict could not be solved by terrorism.
Delivering the keynote address at the first convocation of Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, at the BMICH, the President said that the commitment of the government to bring lasting peace to the country was neither capricious nor wayward.
“Our aim is to achieve lasting peace without giving ransom to terrorists. The people of the country must realise that we do not have narrow political objectives or agendas,” he said at the colourful and dignified ceremony.
The armed forces have to adapt to the tactics of internationalized warfare as our forces are fighting against a globalised terrorism.
That is why our officers require university education that trains them in the latest war strategies, intelligence and warfare, he said.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Ceylon Teachers' Union says they did not drop the fight
Ceylon Teachers' Union (CTU), a leading independent teachers' union of the five trade union coalition that spearheaded the campaign against the salary anomalies, says that they do not agree with the three trade unions that consented to suspend the two-day strike that was scheduled for 29 and 30 October.
The Chairman of the CTU Joseph Stalin Fernando says that the government was saying that the salary anomalies will be removed by December 31 even before the teachers’ unions led the boycott of evaluation of G.C.E. (Advanced Level) examination. He asked from the trade unions that decided to suspend the trade union action, why they decided to strike for two days if they had a guarantee that the government would remove salary anomalies as they said.
Fernando further said that the CTU could not be cheated with false pledges and the union would continue the struggle to remove the salary anomalies until the mission is accomplished.
The Chairman of the CTU Joseph Stalin Fernando says that the government was saying that the salary anomalies will be removed by December 31 even before the teachers’ unions led the boycott of evaluation of G.C.E. (Advanced Level) examination. He asked from the trade unions that decided to suspend the trade union action, why they decided to strike for two days if they had a guarantee that the government would remove salary anomalies as they said.
Fernando further said that the CTU could not be cheated with false pledges and the union would continue the struggle to remove the salary anomalies until the mission is accomplished.
Give up violence, LTTE urged
ondemning the LTTE attack on the Anuradhapura airbase, Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) leader V. Anandasangaree has urged the militant leader, Velupillai Prabhakaran, to give up violence and come to the negotiating table.
In an open letter addressed to Prabhakaran, Mr. Anandasangree charged him with pursuing an elusive goal of Eelam to “safeguard” his prestige and said even now, it was not too late for the LTTE leader to settle for a reasonable solution to the ethnic conflict.
Mr. Anandasangaree said he would have hailed Mr. Prabhakaran as a brave man if all the 22 persons, including the 21-member suicide squad posing with him before the attack, in the photograph that appeared in the local papers with him in the centre, had died.
In an open letter addressed to Prabhakaran, Mr. Anandasangree charged him with pursuing an elusive goal of Eelam to “safeguard” his prestige and said even now, it was not too late for the LTTE leader to settle for a reasonable solution to the ethnic conflict.
Mr. Anandasangaree said he would have hailed Mr. Prabhakaran as a brave man if all the 22 persons, including the 21-member suicide squad posing with him before the attack, in the photograph that appeared in the local papers with him in the centre, had died.
Sri Lanka's bribery commission powerful but seen ineffective
Sri Lanka's bribery and corruption commission has vast powers to probe official misdeeds but cannot act except on a complaint and has its impartiality questioned by the presence of police investigators.
Although commission officials say it is one of the most flexible and authoritative bodies compared to similar departments around the world, it is widely seen as being ineffective in curbing corruption rampant in state service.
"In our commission, we have all the powers. The power to investigate, file legal action, take persons into custody and also to manage legal proceedings," commission official Neville Guruge, a senior police superintendent, told reporters on Tuesday.
The main reason for such flexibility is the inclusion of chosen police officials as investigators of bribery and corruption, he said.
Compared to some 31 such departments or commissions around the world, Sri Lanka is the only commission with police officials working as investigators.
However, Guruge acknowledged that the inclusion of police officers and the absence of independent investigating officials have raised questions about the impartiality of the commission.
Although commission officials say it is one of the most flexible and authoritative bodies compared to similar departments around the world, it is widely seen as being ineffective in curbing corruption rampant in state service.
"In our commission, we have all the powers. The power to investigate, file legal action, take persons into custody and also to manage legal proceedings," commission official Neville Guruge, a senior police superintendent, told reporters on Tuesday.
The main reason for such flexibility is the inclusion of chosen police officials as investigators of bribery and corruption, he said.
Compared to some 31 such departments or commissions around the world, Sri Lanka is the only commission with police officials working as investigators.
However, Guruge acknowledged that the inclusion of police officers and the absence of independent investigating officials have raised questions about the impartiality of the commission.
China, Sri Lanka sign loan pact on port project
The Sri Lankan government and China's Exim Bank Tuesday signed a financial agreement to fund the Hambantota harbor project in Sri Lanka's deep south.
According to the agreement signed by the two parties, China's Exim Bank will provide an export buyer's credit of 360 million U.S. dollars for the project in Hambantota, about 240 km southeast of Colombo.
Li Ruogu, chairman of China's Exim Bank, and P. B. Jayasundara, secretary to Sri Lanka's Finance Ministry, signed the agreement on behalf of the two sides.
Li said his bank was very happy to support one of Sri Lanka's largest development projects and he hoped the project a success.
The primary objective of the Hambantota project is to synchronize different aspects of development such as shipping, trans-shipment, shipbuilding, and catering to increase exports and imports, for which the Port of Colombo does not have enough space and facilities.
According to the agreement signed by the two parties, China's Exim Bank will provide an export buyer's credit of 360 million U.S. dollars for the project in Hambantota, about 240 km southeast of Colombo.
Li Ruogu, chairman of China's Exim Bank, and P. B. Jayasundara, secretary to Sri Lanka's Finance Ministry, signed the agreement on behalf of the two sides.
Li said his bank was very happy to support one of Sri Lanka's largest development projects and he hoped the project a success.
The primary objective of the Hambantota project is to synchronize different aspects of development such as shipping, trans-shipment, shipbuilding, and catering to increase exports and imports, for which the Port of Colombo does not have enough space and facilities.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
ri Lanka government suspends five radio channels over false news report
Sri Lanka Government Information Department today canceled the broadcasting license of five private radio channels of Asia Broadcasting Ltd. today for creating pandemonium by transmitting a false news item on a terrorist attack on a village in the deep south.
The suspended radio channels are Hiru FM, Sha FM, Gold FM, Suriyan FM and Sun FM. A false news report broadcasted by the radio channels of the ABC Ltd. over an attack by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE) cadres at Ranminithenna area in Tissamaharamaya in Hambanthota district of Sri Lanka created great panic among the residents.
The company is accused of broadcasting news on this without confirming the facts and spreading the hysteria all over the country.
However, a journalist of the radio station said that the channels immediately corrected the news and apologized.
The said radio network reportedly belongs to a business person whose brother is a leading young politician of the opposition United National Party.
The suspended radio channels are Hiru FM, Sha FM, Gold FM, Suriyan FM and Sun FM. A false news report broadcasted by the radio channels of the ABC Ltd. over an attack by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE) cadres at Ranminithenna area in Tissamaharamaya in Hambanthota district of Sri Lanka created great panic among the residents.
The company is accused of broadcasting news on this without confirming the facts and spreading the hysteria all over the country.
However, a journalist of the radio station said that the channels immediately corrected the news and apologized.
The said radio network reportedly belongs to a business person whose brother is a leading young politician of the opposition United National Party.
Sri Lanka seeks Pak investment
Qamar Zaman Gill, Acting President FPCCI said that Pakistan and Sri Lanka have great potential to expand their trade relations which has been supplemented by the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.
During a meeting with V S Sidath Kumar, Consul General of Sri Lanka at Federation House, Karachi, Gill said that presently the trade volume is in favour of Pakistan which is likely to be little balanced through FTA.
While briefing the consul general about the activities of FPCCI, he suggested for aggressive marketing of Sri Lankan commodities in Pakistan particularly tea and service sectors particularly medical hospitals, tourism and education.
He said that Pakistan and Sri Lanka complement each other in various sectors particularly in tourism, pharmaceutical, readymade garments etc while Sri Lanka is a potential market for Pakistani rice, fruits, leather, surgical and sports goods etc.
The consul general said that presently Sri Lanka had been importing textile from India and Pakistan for value addition in the form of readymade garments which were being exported to European countries under GSP Plus scheme.
During a meeting with V S Sidath Kumar, Consul General of Sri Lanka at Federation House, Karachi, Gill said that presently the trade volume is in favour of Pakistan which is likely to be little balanced through FTA.
While briefing the consul general about the activities of FPCCI, he suggested for aggressive marketing of Sri Lankan commodities in Pakistan particularly tea and service sectors particularly medical hospitals, tourism and education.
He said that Pakistan and Sri Lanka complement each other in various sectors particularly in tourism, pharmaceutical, readymade garments etc while Sri Lanka is a potential market for Pakistani rice, fruits, leather, surgical and sports goods etc.
The consul general said that presently Sri Lanka had been importing textile from India and Pakistan for value addition in the form of readymade garments which were being exported to European countries under GSP Plus scheme.
Sri Lankans use IT to beat poverty
Sri Lanka - In a north-central village, deep inside Sri Lanka's backwoods, a young man is glued to a computer screen, pushing a mouse and filling in figures.
Isuru Senevirathna is entering data at Sri Lanka's first business processing outsourcing (BPO) company set up in a village, and probably among the first in the world that is surrounded by tall trees, bird calls, paddy fields and streams.
"It's nice to be able to do a job like this," the 20-year-old youth,operations director of OnTime Pvt. Ltd, told Inter Press Service.
BPO is a growing IT business which Sri Lanka embraced with relish. Dozens of companies are now springing up in Colombo as many of the world's best Western corporations look for cost-effective ways to handle their back-office operations in countries where labor and communications are cheaper.
But OnTime's setting, next to a wildlife park, and subject to the occasional threat by Tamil Tiger guerrillas, makes it unique. Mahavilachchiya lies 250 kilometers north of Colombo and the fact that it is close to the ancient town of Anuradhapura is an added feature.More >>
Isuru Senevirathna is entering data at Sri Lanka's first business processing outsourcing (BPO) company set up in a village, and probably among the first in the world that is surrounded by tall trees, bird calls, paddy fields and streams.
"It's nice to be able to do a job like this," the 20-year-old youth,operations director of OnTime Pvt. Ltd, told Inter Press Service.
BPO is a growing IT business which Sri Lanka embraced with relish. Dozens of companies are now springing up in Colombo as many of the world's best Western corporations look for cost-effective ways to handle their back-office operations in countries where labor and communications are cheaper.
But OnTime's setting, next to a wildlife park, and subject to the occasional threat by Tamil Tiger guerrillas, makes it unique. Mahavilachchiya lies 250 kilometers north of Colombo and the fact that it is close to the ancient town of Anuradhapura is an added feature.More >>
Hampshire helpers prepare for Sri Lanka
TWO carers from The Old Parsonage Brendoncare Home in Otterbourne and a colleague from Winchester will travel to Sri Lanka next September to help the needy.
They will be working at the Pydiagama Home for Destitute Men and also raising money for Brendoncare, the Winchester-based care charity for older people, during their two-week stay.
Brendoncare's volunteering manager, Julie Lamont, from Lockerley, and carers Marilyn Medrano from Chandler's Ford and Nichola Bryant from Bursledon are part of a 10-strong Brendoncare team. More >>
They will be working at the Pydiagama Home for Destitute Men and also raising money for Brendoncare, the Winchester-based care charity for older people, during their two-week stay.
Brendoncare's volunteering manager, Julie Lamont, from Lockerley, and carers Marilyn Medrano from Chandler's Ford and Nichola Bryant from Bursledon are part of a 10-strong Brendoncare team. More >>
More locomotives for Sri Lanka Railway
Sri Lanka Railway Department General Manager Lalithasiri Gunaruwan says that discussions are underway to purchase 20 power sets from India under a credit line.
India has also pledged a concessionary loan facility to improve the Southern railway line under tsunami reconstruction.
The Indian power sets are in addition to the 15 power sets ordered from China that is to arrive in Colombo in mid 2008. Twenty-five carriages of a 75 batch ordered from China arrived last month and the rest is to arrive in the county by the end of this year.
Railway Department is considering importing three engines to transport Ceylon Petroleum Corporation fuel tankers and two more engines for repair work.
India has also pledged a concessionary loan facility to improve the Southern railway line under tsunami reconstruction.
The Indian power sets are in addition to the 15 power sets ordered from China that is to arrive in Colombo in mid 2008. Twenty-five carriages of a 75 batch ordered from China arrived last month and the rest is to arrive in the county by the end of this year.
Railway Department is considering importing three engines to transport Ceylon Petroleum Corporation fuel tankers and two more engines for repair work.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Sri Lanka's major opposition collecting signatures for a petition to safeguard free education
Sri Lanka's major opposition United National Party (UNP) launched a week long petition campaign to raise a million signatures today from Kurunegala.
The petition is to be handed over to Speaker W.J.M. Lokubandara urging him to take up the issue of deterioration of free education in the country at the parliament.
The signature collection will be conducted at electorate level in public, private and religious institutes including schools and tuition centers, said a UNP spokesman.
Addressing a press briefing in this regard, UNP’s National Education Services Union Chairman, Moneragala district Parliamentarian Ranjith Madduma Bandara said that free education introduced by C.W.W. Kannangara was in jeopardy today. He pointed out that the government did not do anything concrete to resolve the Grade 1 admission issue.
The petition is to be handed over to Speaker W.J.M. Lokubandara urging him to take up the issue of deterioration of free education in the country at the parliament.
The signature collection will be conducted at electorate level in public, private and religious institutes including schools and tuition centers, said a UNP spokesman.
Addressing a press briefing in this regard, UNP’s National Education Services Union Chairman, Moneragala district Parliamentarian Ranjith Madduma Bandara said that free education introduced by C.W.W. Kannangara was in jeopardy today. He pointed out that the government did not do anything concrete to resolve the Grade 1 admission issue.
Terrorism will be fought to the end – President mahinda Rajapaksa
President Mahinda Rajapaksa categorically stated that while trying to find a negotiated political solution so that all the communities could live in harmony, his government will not tolerate terrorism and it would be fought until total elimination.
Participating in the live television question and answer session ‘Janapathi Jana Hamuwa’ at Temple Trees last night, he said that the country managed to achieve a substantial growth rate and provide additional employment to more than hundred thousand youth which fighting terrorists and facing the adverse impact of global price hike of oil, milk powder and other items.
He pointed out that despite the expenditure for national security and rising fuel costs the Government would not set aside development. He was of the view that priority had to be given to development in all areas, through local and foreign investments.
The Government’s newly launched food drive and Gama Neguma and Maga Neguma programmes would spur rural development.
Participating in the live television question and answer session ‘Janapathi Jana Hamuwa’ at Temple Trees last night, he said that the country managed to achieve a substantial growth rate and provide additional employment to more than hundred thousand youth which fighting terrorists and facing the adverse impact of global price hike of oil, milk powder and other items.
He pointed out that despite the expenditure for national security and rising fuel costs the Government would not set aside development. He was of the view that priority had to be given to development in all areas, through local and foreign investments.
The Government’s newly launched food drive and Gama Neguma and Maga Neguma programmes would spur rural development.
Sri Lanka to bring in political package by year end
The Sri Lankan government is to bring in its political package by the end of the year as means to end the island's ethnic separatist conflict, a top official said Sunday.
Palitha Kohona, the foreign secretary, told reporters that the government is mindful on the need to address the concerns of the island's minorities, particularly the Tamil community.
"The Sri Lankan government is of the view that this sort of problem (conflict with the Tiger rebels) cannot be resolved by military means alone," Kohona said.
"The political proposals through the all political party process are expected by December," Dr Kohona said.
The foreign secretary in commenting on the 3-day international counter terrorism conference held here from Thursday said that the world stands united against terrorism but still an implementation mechanism for all UN conventions against terrorism may still be needed.
Palitha Kohona, the foreign secretary, told reporters that the government is mindful on the need to address the concerns of the island's minorities, particularly the Tamil community.
"The Sri Lankan government is of the view that this sort of problem (conflict with the Tiger rebels) cannot be resolved by military means alone," Kohona said.
"The political proposals through the all political party process are expected by December," Dr Kohona said.
The foreign secretary in commenting on the 3-day international counter terrorism conference held here from Thursday said that the world stands united against terrorism but still an implementation mechanism for all UN conventions against terrorism may still be needed.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
U.S. funds program to combat human trafficking in Sri Lanka
The U.S. State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development are funding a $500,000 program to help train Sri Lankan government officials to combat human trafficking in Sri Lanka. The program will be implemented by the International Organization on Migration (IOM).
At a press conference yesterday U.S. Ambassador Robert Blake announced that a recent U. S. State Department report found Sri Lanka to be a country of source and origin for men, women and children trafficked for domestic labor and sexual exploitation.
While commending the Sri Lankan government for amending its penal code last year to criminalize trafficking Blake said that Sri Lanka needs a better trained network of law enforcement professionals to establish legal grounds to identify and prosecute the traffickers.
At a press conference yesterday U.S. Ambassador Robert Blake announced that a recent U. S. State Department report found Sri Lanka to be a country of source and origin for men, women and children trafficked for domestic labor and sexual exploitation.
While commending the Sri Lankan government for amending its penal code last year to criminalize trafficking Blake said that Sri Lanka needs a better trained network of law enforcement professionals to establish legal grounds to identify and prosecute the traffickers.
First state-of-the-art Fabric Park opens in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa will declare open the MAS Holdings' first state-of-the-art, privately owned industrial fabric park, the MAS Fabric Park at Thulhiriya in the Northwestern Province of Sri Lanka today.
The previously state owned Thulhiriya textile mill was later sold to a Korean company that later suspended operations and the investors fled the country.
The government paid compensations to the workers and the factory was auctioned to a private company. In July 2006 the government signed an agreement with the MAS Holdings to redevelop the textile mill and revive it as a textile industrial zone with international standards at a cost of US $100 million.
The previously state owned Thulhiriya textile mill was later sold to a Korean company that later suspended operations and the investors fled the country.
The government paid compensations to the workers and the factory was auctioned to a private company. In July 2006 the government signed an agreement with the MAS Holdings to redevelop the textile mill and revive it as a textile industrial zone with international standards at a cost of US $100 million.
HR mechanism in place - President
The Government has created a mechanism to ensure the implementation of human rights, President Mahinda Rajapaksa declared yesterday.
Participating in the live question and answer session Janapathi Jana Hamuwa at Temple Trees, President Rajapaksa said this was the first time that a Government has implemented such a mechanism.
The President said the Government had nothing to hide on the human rights front and has established a Human Rights Ministry to prove its commitment.
He recalled his campaigns against human rights violations in the past, saying he was highly sensitive about any rights violations.
The Government has succeeded in reducing alleged abductions to a great extent and taken action against several persons involved in such acts.
Participating in the live question and answer session Janapathi Jana Hamuwa at Temple Trees, President Rajapaksa said this was the first time that a Government has implemented such a mechanism.
The President said the Government had nothing to hide on the human rights front and has established a Human Rights Ministry to prove its commitment.
He recalled his campaigns against human rights violations in the past, saying he was highly sensitive about any rights violations.
The Government has succeeded in reducing alleged abductions to a great extent and taken action against several persons involved in such acts.
Sri Lanka to conduct more seismic surveys to explore oil
Sri Lanka has decided to conduct two dimensional seismic surveys to test the availability of petroleum and Natural gas deposits in the South Western, Southern, South Eastern and Eastern offshore areas.
The Cabinet granted its approval on Wednesday to a Memorandum submitted by Petroleum and Petroleum Resources Development Minister A.H.M. Fowzie to conduct a two dimensional seismic survey costing US$ 6.5 million to ascertain whether petroleum and natural gas deposits occur in those areas.
The Petroleum Resources Development Secretariat (PRDS) has submitted a proposal for conducting a two dimensional survey and this was approved by the Petroleum Development Committee. The total estimated length for carrying out the survey is about 2,500 kilometers.
The Cabinet granted its approval on Wednesday to a Memorandum submitted by Petroleum and Petroleum Resources Development Minister A.H.M. Fowzie to conduct a two dimensional seismic survey costing US$ 6.5 million to ascertain whether petroleum and natural gas deposits occur in those areas.
The Petroleum Resources Development Secretariat (PRDS) has submitted a proposal for conducting a two dimensional survey and this was approved by the Petroleum Development Committee. The total estimated length for carrying out the survey is about 2,500 kilometers.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Srilakvahini - LBN Satellite tie-up for better choice
Srilakvahini Satellite has teamed up with LBN Satellite to give their customers better choice of channels. Srilakvahini which started just ten months ago has covered most of the country, Srilakvahini's Director Jayathisha Tennakoon said.
Srilakvahini has been a satellite provider to more than 140 countries and now it expands to Australia due to the high demand in the country. Srilakvahini is a Sri Lankan channel, also produced by Sri Lankans. Srilakvahini is presently connected through Thai com satellite which gives them a chance to communicate throughout the world. Srilakvahini has joined hands with LBN so that all Sri Lankans also could enjoy this channel.
'Our main objective is to make all Sri Lankans in other countries feel at home by joining Srilakvahini,' Srilakvahini Director Rohan Pieries said. He also said that it's a pride for them as their staff members are all Sri Lankan citizens. They have a range of programmes for every person to enjoy.
They do not charge monthly rentals as it is a free channel. Srilakvahini has one of the largest coverage from Sri Lanka to the world. They have covered many countries such as, Asia, Europe, Middle-East, African countries, Russian Federation and Australia.
They hope to expand their channel throughout the world and extend channel hours, to 24 hours.
Srilakvahini has been a satellite provider to more than 140 countries and now it expands to Australia due to the high demand in the country. Srilakvahini is a Sri Lankan channel, also produced by Sri Lankans. Srilakvahini is presently connected through Thai com satellite which gives them a chance to communicate throughout the world. Srilakvahini has joined hands with LBN so that all Sri Lankans also could enjoy this channel.
'Our main objective is to make all Sri Lankans in other countries feel at home by joining Srilakvahini,' Srilakvahini Director Rohan Pieries said. He also said that it's a pride for them as their staff members are all Sri Lankan citizens. They have a range of programmes for every person to enjoy.
They do not charge monthly rentals as it is a free channel. Srilakvahini has one of the largest coverage from Sri Lanka to the world. They have covered many countries such as, Asia, Europe, Middle-East, African countries, Russian Federation and Australia.
They hope to expand their channel throughout the world and extend channel hours, to 24 hours.
Lankan jumbo to Armenia
Sri Lanka will donate a she elephant to Armenia in response to a request by the Armenian Government to consolidate bilateral friendly relations between the two countries.
The Cabinet has approved a memorandum submitted in this connection, the Government Information Department said.
Director General National Zoological Gardens H. Dissanayake said accordingly a nine-year-old she elephant named 'Asokamala' from the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage will be sent to Armenia shortly.
He said as a reciprocal gesture Armenia has pledged to offer further training to Sri Lankan veterinary surgeons and gift a set of its endemic animals to Sri Lanka.
The Cabinet has approved a memorandum submitted in this connection, the Government Information Department said.
Director General National Zoological Gardens H. Dissanayake said accordingly a nine-year-old she elephant named 'Asokamala' from the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage will be sent to Armenia shortly.
He said as a reciprocal gesture Armenia has pledged to offer further training to Sri Lankan veterinary surgeons and gift a set of its endemic animals to Sri Lanka.
Heathrow shaken by plane collision
British aviation authorities are investigating a freak accident in which a SriLankan Airlines A340 collided with a British Airways 747 at Heathrow on Monday night. The Sri Lankan Airbus was bound for Maldives while the BA Boeing was heading to Singapore.
"We turned our wing, almost hit what looked like the tail end of the British Airways flight, and we ended up chopping off a bit of wing ... It cut through it like butter," said journalist Annasofie Flamand, 32, who was on the Sri Lankan Airlines flight UL502.
"It's pretty incredible to see something like that in a place like Heathrow Airport. " Thank God it was on the ground and not in the air." Witnesses reported seeing part of the engine of a British Airways jumbo jet aircraft, Flight BA011, falling onto the runway when it collided with the tip of the wing of the Sri Lankan Airlines plane.
No one has been injured in the incident which occurred around 10.20 p.m. at the busiest airport in Europe.
Both aircraft suffered damage and repairs are expected to take several weeks. The incident comes as Heathrow airport faces growing criticism for long delays and congestion. Each year more than 64 million passengers pass through Heathrow and there are about 450,000 landings and take-offs.
Passengers were reported to be very shaken and distressed but were being told by their pilots that there was no need to panic.
During one recent incident the airport's northern runway was blocked for more than 90 minutes after a Royal Brunei flight made an emergency landing. A BA spokesman described the incident as a "minor collision", and added that an investigation had been launched. "Our aircraft had a minor collision with another aircraft on the taxiways," the BA spokesman said.
"Engineers are inspecting the aircraft to ascertain the damage. The passengers have been offloaded and returned to the terminal building. SriLankan Airlines said it was arranging to accommodate its 286 passengers and 11 crew in hotels.
"What we know is that the plane clipped the wings of another aircraft while lining up for take off," a SriLankan spokesman said. "We understand it is a minor incident, but are awaiting a full report."
"We turned our wing, almost hit what looked like the tail end of the British Airways flight, and we ended up chopping off a bit of wing ... It cut through it like butter," said journalist Annasofie Flamand, 32, who was on the Sri Lankan Airlines flight UL502.
"It's pretty incredible to see something like that in a place like Heathrow Airport. " Thank God it was on the ground and not in the air." Witnesses reported seeing part of the engine of a British Airways jumbo jet aircraft, Flight BA011, falling onto the runway when it collided with the tip of the wing of the Sri Lankan Airlines plane.
No one has been injured in the incident which occurred around 10.20 p.m. at the busiest airport in Europe.
Both aircraft suffered damage and repairs are expected to take several weeks. The incident comes as Heathrow airport faces growing criticism for long delays and congestion. Each year more than 64 million passengers pass through Heathrow and there are about 450,000 landings and take-offs.
Passengers were reported to be very shaken and distressed but were being told by their pilots that there was no need to panic.
During one recent incident the airport's northern runway was blocked for more than 90 minutes after a Royal Brunei flight made an emergency landing. A BA spokesman described the incident as a "minor collision", and added that an investigation had been launched. "Our aircraft had a minor collision with another aircraft on the taxiways," the BA spokesman said.
"Engineers are inspecting the aircraft to ascertain the damage. The passengers have been offloaded and returned to the terminal building. SriLankan Airlines said it was arranging to accommodate its 286 passengers and 11 crew in hotels.
"What we know is that the plane clipped the wings of another aircraft while lining up for take off," a SriLankan spokesman said. "We understand it is a minor incident, but are awaiting a full report."
Sri Lankan terror gang busted in ATM heist plot
A band of men linked to Tamil Tiger terrorists - led by a Sri Lankan who used a fake passport to get security clearance at Newark Airport - has been busted in a massive plot to loot city ATMs.
Manhattan prosecutors told the Daily News the eight men had ties to the terror group and were part of a scheme to use stolen credit card numbers to steal $250,000 in New York - and tens of millions from ATMs worldwide.
Six were nabbed in January in a raid at the Chelsea Inn, a reputed lair for the ultraviolent Sri Lankan separatist group.
The other two, including alleged ringleader Sivapalasri Velayuthampillai, 31, of Newark, were busted in July.
Until his arrest, Velayuthampillai worked three jobs at Newark Airport as a security agent and baggage handler with complete security clearance.
Prosecutors said Velayuthampillai entered the U.S. with a fake passport and dubious tale of persecution. He was given political asylum in December 2001 under circumstances still under investigation by District Attorney Robert Morgenthau.
"The defendant is part of a large, highly organized ring of international criminals who steal account and PIN numbers ... and then come to the United States to steal money from our financial institutions," Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Kim Han said in court papers.
The U.S. and other Western governments consider the Tamil Tigers a terror organization. Velayuthampillai and the other alleged cell members came from families who emigrated from Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Somalia.
Prosecutors contend the men became part of a massive global identity theft scam last year when credit card numbers and PINs were stolen from thousands of customers at 200 gas stations in the United Kingdom.
In recent bail arguments, Han said Velayuthampillai booked hotels for his "criminal cohorts," rented cars, drove them to various banks, moved them to different hotels every few days and hooked them up with a man who sent the money abroad.
Han said Velayuthampillai had 30 forged cards on him when he was arrested in midtown in July and more than 400 bogus cards in his rented car, all bearing account numbers stolen from two U.K. gas stations.
The operation was accidentally uncovered in the Chelsea Inn on 11th Ave. when NYPD narcotics detectives raided the hotel and one investigator shouted to everyone in the lobby, "Freeze! I will shoot you if you move!"
That's when one rattled suspect, Ibrahim Abdifatah, 27, dropped 67 blank credit cards on the floor, police said.
"These are playing cards. We play with them," Abdifatah said.
Cops found more than 250 blank credit cards, a coding machine, lists of financial account information and a laptop in an upstairs room that four of the defendants shared.
Abdifatah, who has pleaded guilty to more than 500 counts of identity theft and fraud, told cops he was recruited in England and promised $5,000 to use the bogus cards. Investigators said the Tamil Tigers target the U.S. because American credit cards don't have the extra microchip security device that has helped curtail credit card frauds in Britain.
Another Sri Lankan, Krishantha Rasanayagan, 19, quickly fingered a cohort, Usman Mahmood, as the man who had organized the effort in London.
"He showed us how to encode the cards. We all do the encoding, and we each make withdrawals. Our goal was to reach $250,000," Rasanayagan said.
All of the defendants, except Velayuthampillai, are being held without bail. Bail was set for him at $2 million.
Lawyers for the defendants deny their clients have terror ties. "I don't think he was politically motivated," Abdifatah's lawyer Adam Freedman said.
"This is like tying a sidewalk crack dealer ... to the Medellin drug cartel [in Colombia]," said Mahmood's lawyer Michael Dailey.
British and Sri Lankan authorities say the proceeds from this kind of international ATM fraud are routed back to the Tamil Tigers, Han wrote.
This summer, Jane's Intelligence Review said the Tamil Tigers raise up to $300 million a year through international credit card fraud, extortion and donations.
bross@nydailynews.com
Manhattan prosecutors told the Daily News the eight men had ties to the terror group and were part of a scheme to use stolen credit card numbers to steal $250,000 in New York - and tens of millions from ATMs worldwide.
Six were nabbed in January in a raid at the Chelsea Inn, a reputed lair for the ultraviolent Sri Lankan separatist group.
The other two, including alleged ringleader Sivapalasri Velayuthampillai, 31, of Newark, were busted in July.
Until his arrest, Velayuthampillai worked three jobs at Newark Airport as a security agent and baggage handler with complete security clearance.
Prosecutors said Velayuthampillai entered the U.S. with a fake passport and dubious tale of persecution. He was given political asylum in December 2001 under circumstances still under investigation by District Attorney Robert Morgenthau.
"The defendant is part of a large, highly organized ring of international criminals who steal account and PIN numbers ... and then come to the United States to steal money from our financial institutions," Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Kim Han said in court papers.
The U.S. and other Western governments consider the Tamil Tigers a terror organization. Velayuthampillai and the other alleged cell members came from families who emigrated from Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Somalia.
Prosecutors contend the men became part of a massive global identity theft scam last year when credit card numbers and PINs were stolen from thousands of customers at 200 gas stations in the United Kingdom.
In recent bail arguments, Han said Velayuthampillai booked hotels for his "criminal cohorts," rented cars, drove them to various banks, moved them to different hotels every few days and hooked them up with a man who sent the money abroad.
Han said Velayuthampillai had 30 forged cards on him when he was arrested in midtown in July and more than 400 bogus cards in his rented car, all bearing account numbers stolen from two U.K. gas stations.
The operation was accidentally uncovered in the Chelsea Inn on 11th Ave. when NYPD narcotics detectives raided the hotel and one investigator shouted to everyone in the lobby, "Freeze! I will shoot you if you move!"
That's when one rattled suspect, Ibrahim Abdifatah, 27, dropped 67 blank credit cards on the floor, police said.
"These are playing cards. We play with them," Abdifatah said.
Cops found more than 250 blank credit cards, a coding machine, lists of financial account information and a laptop in an upstairs room that four of the defendants shared.
Abdifatah, who has pleaded guilty to more than 500 counts of identity theft and fraud, told cops he was recruited in England and promised $5,000 to use the bogus cards. Investigators said the Tamil Tigers target the U.S. because American credit cards don't have the extra microchip security device that has helped curtail credit card frauds in Britain.
Another Sri Lankan, Krishantha Rasanayagan, 19, quickly fingered a cohort, Usman Mahmood, as the man who had organized the effort in London.
"He showed us how to encode the cards. We all do the encoding, and we each make withdrawals. Our goal was to reach $250,000," Rasanayagan said.
All of the defendants, except Velayuthampillai, are being held without bail. Bail was set for him at $2 million.
Lawyers for the defendants deny their clients have terror ties. "I don't think he was politically motivated," Abdifatah's lawyer Adam Freedman said.
"This is like tying a sidewalk crack dealer ... to the Medellin drug cartel [in Colombia]," said Mahmood's lawyer Michael Dailey.
British and Sri Lankan authorities say the proceeds from this kind of international ATM fraud are routed back to the Tamil Tigers, Han wrote.
This summer, Jane's Intelligence Review said the Tamil Tigers raise up to $300 million a year through international credit card fraud, extortion and donations.
bross@nydailynews.com
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Sri Lanka Army denies allegations of blocking UN Human Rights Commissioner meeting people
Oct 13, Colombo: Sri Lanka Army spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara denied media reports that the Army blocked the visiting UN Human Rights Commissioner Louise Arbour meeting people of Jaffna.
He said that the Army accompanied her to meetings scheduled by the UN office of Sri Lanka. Army said that she met many individuals at the Jaffna Bishop’s house and other persons were not allowed to meet her for security reasons.
Hundreds of civilians affected by the rights violations have been seen in front of Nallur Kovil and UNHCR office in Jaffna.
Meanwhile some media reports quoting the residents said that the Army chased the relatives of the disappeared people who gathered at the UNHCR Jaffna office when the UN Commissioner visited the place. Arbour is to meet the fasting Tamil detainees who plead to bring charges against them or to release them at Welikada Prison today. She is to hold a press conference this afternoon.
He said that the Army accompanied her to meetings scheduled by the UN office of Sri Lanka. Army said that she met many individuals at the Jaffna Bishop’s house and other persons were not allowed to meet her for security reasons.
Hundreds of civilians affected by the rights violations have been seen in front of Nallur Kovil and UNHCR office in Jaffna.
Meanwhile some media reports quoting the residents said that the Army chased the relatives of the disappeared people who gathered at the UNHCR Jaffna office when the UN Commissioner visited the place. Arbour is to meet the fasting Tamil detainees who plead to bring charges against them or to release them at Welikada Prison today. She is to hold a press conference this afternoon.
Education revamp proposed
COLOMBO: The government is looking at the possibility of restructuring the school system along with admission of students in a bid to overcome prevailing malpractices and difficulties pertaining to the education sector. According to a cabinet memorandum by Education Minister Susil Premajayantha a committee of intellectuals is to be appointed to look into matters and come out with a viable programme to streamline the education sector from 2009.
Media and Information Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa explaining the lengthy Cabinet memorandum presented by the Education Minister yesterday noted that education which is the cornerstone of development should be equal to all and emphasised the need to restructure it for better gains.
In the Education Minister’s memorandum he has pointed out that 260 rural schools had to be closed down from 2000 to 2005, due to the popular school concept, with parents reluctant to admit their children to less affluent schools in the rural areas.
Media and Information Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa explaining the lengthy Cabinet memorandum presented by the Education Minister yesterday noted that education which is the cornerstone of development should be equal to all and emphasised the need to restructure it for better gains.
In the Education Minister’s memorandum he has pointed out that 260 rural schools had to be closed down from 2000 to 2005, due to the popular school concept, with parents reluctant to admit their children to less affluent schools in the rural areas.
More income from betting and gaming levy in opposition to moral upliftment
Oct 13, Colombo: Last year, Sri Lanka state earned more from betting and gaming levy, a serious offence under the accepted cultural norms, despite all efforts of the government for moral upliftment.
The state has a separate Ministry of Moral Upliftment that operates directly under the President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
The country that is vehemently against the casinos collected Rs.203.90 million for the financial year 2006/2007 in terms of betting and gaming levy from eight casino clubs operating in the country at present. This is an increase of Rs. 1.2 million when compared to the previous year. However, the number of casino clubs has not increased last year.
The Chief Government Whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle revealed these facts yesterday responding to a question by opposition MP Ravi Karunanayake. Six clubs operated in 2004/2005 fiscal year and the tax revenue was Rs. 55 million, said Fernandopulle.
The state has a separate Ministry of Moral Upliftment that operates directly under the President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
The country that is vehemently against the casinos collected Rs.203.90 million for the financial year 2006/2007 in terms of betting and gaming levy from eight casino clubs operating in the country at present. This is an increase of Rs. 1.2 million when compared to the previous year. However, the number of casino clubs has not increased last year.
The Chief Government Whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle revealed these facts yesterday responding to a question by opposition MP Ravi Karunanayake. Six clubs operated in 2004/2005 fiscal year and the tax revenue was Rs. 55 million, said Fernandopulle.
Sri Lanka permits importing rice
Oct 13, Colombo: Sri Lanka government has permitted the Essential Commodities Importers' Association to import 75,000 metric tons of two varieties of rice with immediate effect to bring down the escalating price of the major staple food.
The Minister of Trade, Marketing Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs Bandula Gunawardena said that the two imported rice varieties would be sold at Rs. 40 and Rs. 45. He said that the imported rice would reach the market by November 15. The government has waived the Rs. 20 per kilo tax from imported rice.
Previously, Sri Lanka imported 220,000 metric tons of rice in 2004, the maximum amount imported in recent times.
The Minister of Trade, Marketing Development, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs Bandula Gunawardena said that the two imported rice varieties would be sold at Rs. 40 and Rs. 45. He said that the imported rice would reach the market by November 15. The government has waived the Rs. 20 per kilo tax from imported rice.
Previously, Sri Lanka imported 220,000 metric tons of rice in 2004, the maximum amount imported in recent times.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Five wicket win gives England Series win
England powered their way to a historic five wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the fourth one day international played under lights at the R. Premadasa Stadium yesterday.
The visitors also with this win wrapped up the series 3-1 with the fifth and final game scheduled for Saturday at the same venue. This was the first time that England had clinched a one day Series on Sri Lankan soil and also their first series win in the sub continent after 21 years.
Their success of course was delayed to a certain extent when paceman Dilhara Fernando struck twice in successive deliveries with 18 runs still needed for victory. However Kevin Pieterson played his best innings in the series to guide England home scoring an unbeaten 63 from 75 balls with one six and four boundaries.
England’s run chase was spearheaded by their opening batsman Alistair Cook who provided a solid start to the innings along with his partner Phil Mustard. They maintained the required run rate throughout the innings and collected their runs without taking any risks.
Mustard of course departed in the sixth over with the score at 30 having struck four boundaries but Cook carried on with the good work and consolidated their position to set the pace for a series clinching victory.
Cook’s innings had a great amount of significance because he crossed the fifty run mark for the second time in his career while playing in his 15th one day international match.
The visitors also with this win wrapped up the series 3-1 with the fifth and final game scheduled for Saturday at the same venue. This was the first time that England had clinched a one day Series on Sri Lankan soil and also their first series win in the sub continent after 21 years.
Their success of course was delayed to a certain extent when paceman Dilhara Fernando struck twice in successive deliveries with 18 runs still needed for victory. However Kevin Pieterson played his best innings in the series to guide England home scoring an unbeaten 63 from 75 balls with one six and four boundaries.
England’s run chase was spearheaded by their opening batsman Alistair Cook who provided a solid start to the innings along with his partner Phil Mustard. They maintained the required run rate throughout the innings and collected their runs without taking any risks.
Mustard of course departed in the sixth over with the score at 30 having struck four boundaries but Cook carried on with the good work and consolidated their position to set the pace for a series clinching victory.
Cook’s innings had a great amount of significance because he crossed the fifty run mark for the second time in his career while playing in his 15th one day international match.
69,026 mental health patients in Lanka
There are 69,026 mental patients in Sri Lanka and 37,181 are males and 31,845 females, a Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry spokesman said.
He said according to statistics, the number of persons who committed suicide in 2007 due to mental health problems are 251 out of which 72 females.
The Ministry released these statistics parallel to the World Mental Health Day which fell yesterday. It was all revealed that only 19 out of 65 mental health specialists have returned to Sri Lanka after receiving higher education in foreign countries sources said.
Schoolchildren are affected by mental health problems caused by stress.
Healthcare and Nutrition Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva has made arrangements to solve this problem by getting 43 more doctors capable of treating mental health patients. The Ministry has also appointed 80 Medical Officers of Mental Health.
He said according to statistics, the number of persons who committed suicide in 2007 due to mental health problems are 251 out of which 72 females.
The Ministry released these statistics parallel to the World Mental Health Day which fell yesterday. It was all revealed that only 19 out of 65 mental health specialists have returned to Sri Lanka after receiving higher education in foreign countries sources said.
Schoolchildren are affected by mental health problems caused by stress.
Healthcare and Nutrition Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva has made arrangements to solve this problem by getting 43 more doctors capable of treating mental health patients. The Ministry has also appointed 80 Medical Officers of Mental Health.
BoC annual report gains global fame
The Bank of Ceylon won four prestigious world awards for its 2006 annual report at the annual international 2006 Vision Awards and the Annual International ARC Awards, which were held recently.
The Bank won three major awards including top platinum at the annual international 2006 Vision Awards, competing against 2,500 entries from 21 countries. In the annual international ARC Awards, the bank won a top Gold Award, competing with 1,900 entries from 26 countries, submitted by 800 different companies representing over 200 industries.
Deputy General Manager (Corporate and Offshore Banking) of BoC W.A. Nalani said that these four awards
Awards: Chairman of the BoC Gamini Wickramasinghe and the team with the awards. Picture by Sumanachandra Ariyawansa
will help them to strengthen the bank’s international recognition. Bank is working with nearly 1,000 corresponding banks in the world and this will be an ideal opportunity for us enhance our international operations and boost our corporate image internationally, she said.
The International ARC Awards were created to honour overall excellence in annual reports, in terms of contents and designs. It is the most recognised award ceremony in the world. All the wining entries of ARC awards including a copy of the BoCs annual report will be exhibited at the Museum of Art and Commerce in Hamburg, Germany, from October 23.
The Bank won three major awards including top platinum at the annual international 2006 Vision Awards, competing against 2,500 entries from 21 countries. In the annual international ARC Awards, the bank won a top Gold Award, competing with 1,900 entries from 26 countries, submitted by 800 different companies representing over 200 industries.
Deputy General Manager (Corporate and Offshore Banking) of BoC W.A. Nalani said that these four awards
Awards: Chairman of the BoC Gamini Wickramasinghe and the team with the awards. Picture by Sumanachandra Ariyawansa
will help them to strengthen the bank’s international recognition. Bank is working with nearly 1,000 corresponding banks in the world and this will be an ideal opportunity for us enhance our international operations and boost our corporate image internationally, she said.
The International ARC Awards were created to honour overall excellence in annual reports, in terms of contents and designs. It is the most recognised award ceremony in the world. All the wining entries of ARC awards including a copy of the BoCs annual report will be exhibited at the Museum of Art and Commerce in Hamburg, Germany, from October 23.
KDA a university from today
The Sir John Kotelawela Defence Academy (KDA) established in 1980, with the specific purpose of grooming academically and professionally qualified officers for the three Armed services would be renamed Sir John Kotelawela Defence University (KDU) today by President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
The Academy elevated to University status in 1988, is the only one of its kind in Sri Lanka and has the reputation of being one of the best in South Asia, being a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
The KDA which fulfils the education demands of Security Forces and related services, was originally established according to a proposal made by the three Service Commanders in 1978, and subsequently established in 1980 on a land donated by Sri Lanka’s third Prime Minister Sir John Kotelawela.
Chancellor Major General Dennis Perera who pioneered the cause of establishing the KDA in the 1970s as the Army Commander called it a revolution of military affairs at that time.
The Chancellor who paid tribute to the late Sir John Kotelawela said in keeping with the modern trend, the Forces’ Commanders had made this recommendation at that time for the establishment of the Academy to train officers of all three Forces under one roof.
The Chancellor also emphasised the importance of giving due recognition to the profession of Arms as it is not that well-known in the country. The KDA would continue to serve the nation in keeping with its vision, mission and objectives for many years to come.
The establishment which grew over the years has produced 1,510 graduates up to now and by the end of 2007, the figure would go up to 1,700.
The Academy elevated to University status in 1988, is the only one of its kind in Sri Lanka and has the reputation of being one of the best in South Asia, being a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
The KDA which fulfils the education demands of Security Forces and related services, was originally established according to a proposal made by the three Service Commanders in 1978, and subsequently established in 1980 on a land donated by Sri Lanka’s third Prime Minister Sir John Kotelawela.
Chancellor Major General Dennis Perera who pioneered the cause of establishing the KDA in the 1970s as the Army Commander called it a revolution of military affairs at that time.
The Chancellor who paid tribute to the late Sir John Kotelawela said in keeping with the modern trend, the Forces’ Commanders had made this recommendation at that time for the establishment of the Academy to train officers of all three Forces under one roof.
The Chancellor also emphasised the importance of giving due recognition to the profession of Arms as it is not that well-known in the country. The KDA would continue to serve the nation in keeping with its vision, mission and objectives for many years to come.
The establishment which grew over the years has produced 1,510 graduates up to now and by the end of 2007, the figure would go up to 1,700.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
SL Navy destroys LTTE arms vessel "Matshusima" in high seas off Dondra Head
SL Navy today (07) destroyed another LTTE arms carrying ship in the high seas 1,700 km off Dondra Head, the southern extremity of Sri Lanka.
LTTE vessel identified as MV "Matshusima" was intercepted and destroyed by Naval Task units after a long hot pursuit, security sources said.
The 70 m long vessel had a displacement of 3,000 tons. There were 12 to 15 LTTE cadres on board the vessel at the time it was destroyed. This is the 08th vessel of the LTTE's arms smuggling fleet destroyed in recent months by the Sri Lanka Navy.
Reports said the vessel, part of the LTTE floating arms warehouse, was believed to be transferring long range artillery rounds, high-speed water scooters, sophisticated diving apparatus, outboard motors, radar and global positioning (GPS) equipment, high power transmission equipment and communications interception equipment for the proscribed terror outfit. More>>
LTTE vessel identified as MV "Matshusima" was intercepted and destroyed by Naval Task units after a long hot pursuit, security sources said.
The 70 m long vessel had a displacement of 3,000 tons. There were 12 to 15 LTTE cadres on board the vessel at the time it was destroyed. This is the 08th vessel of the LTTE's arms smuggling fleet destroyed in recent months by the Sri Lanka Navy.
Reports said the vessel, part of the LTTE floating arms warehouse, was believed to be transferring long range artillery rounds, high-speed water scooters, sophisticated diving apparatus, outboard motors, radar and global positioning (GPS) equipment, high power transmission equipment and communications interception equipment for the proscribed terror outfit. More>>
SLMM warned over Icelander's Wanni visit
The Government has warned the Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) over the unauthorised 'transportation' of Iceland's Foreign Ministry official for a meeting with the LTTE in the Wanni. The Government reiterated that the truce monitors could be sent back for violating diplomatic regulations.
Suspicion over the 'possible double standard' of the truce monitors came to light following the meeting between Iceland's Foreign Ministry Counsellor Bjarni Vestmann and S.P. Thamilselvam in Kilinochchi. Government Defence spokesman Minister Keheliya Rambukwella told the 'Sunday Observer' that the Government could ask the SLMM to pack up and go but still gave them room as the Government was committed to a negotiated settlement.
Meanwhile, the Government will re-examine the Ceasefire Agreement (CFA) if the SLMM continues to engage in such activities, which are beyond the mandate given to the truce monitors under the CFA.
"The Government still feels that the SLMM is a line of communication to the LTTE as we are very serious about having a negotiated settlement. More >>
Suspicion over the 'possible double standard' of the truce monitors came to light following the meeting between Iceland's Foreign Ministry Counsellor Bjarni Vestmann and S.P. Thamilselvam in Kilinochchi. Government Defence spokesman Minister Keheliya Rambukwella told the 'Sunday Observer' that the Government could ask the SLMM to pack up and go but still gave them room as the Government was committed to a negotiated settlement.
Meanwhile, the Government will re-examine the Ceasefire Agreement (CFA) if the SLMM continues to engage in such activities, which are beyond the mandate given to the truce monitors under the CFA.
"The Government still feels that the SLMM is a line of communication to the LTTE as we are very serious about having a negotiated settlement. More >>
Navy recovers 22 barrels of diesel during search patrols- Mannar
Naval personnel on foot patrol seized 22 barrels of diesel containing 210 liters each in the beach at Kasalpadu in Pesalai, Mannar, security sources said.
The diesel barrels were set to be transported to un-cleared areas in order to be handed over to the LTTE terrorists. There was a 14 horse power outboard motor engine boat that was to be used to transport the captured diesel, naval sources said.
Though the area was further searched, no other apprehensions or arrests were made, the sources added.
The diesel barrels were set to be transported to un-cleared areas in order to be handed over to the LTTE terrorists. There was a 14 horse power outboard motor engine boat that was to be used to transport the captured diesel, naval sources said.
Though the area was further searched, no other apprehensions or arrests were made, the sources added.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Join Govt for Nation’s uplift
President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday urged the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and all other parties to join the Government’s effort to develop the economy.
President Rajapaksa made this appeal when he addressed the colourful Wap Maghul Mahothsavaya- 2007 (Inauguration of the Ploughing Festival-2007) in traditional style amid a large gathering of the peasant community, in the paddy fields of the Balagollagama Viharagama at Nikaweratiya.
The President recalled that the JVP should re-join the fold as an expression of gratitude to thousands of youth who died for its cause in 1988-89.
He called on the every citizen of Sri Lanka to fully support and co-operate in the Api Wawamu Rata Nagamu (Let us Cultivate and Uplift the Nation) national campaign to conquer the economic war and achieve a self-sustained economy.
“We fervently appeal to all party leaders including the JVP who helped us to come into power, to rally round the Government and lend their fullest assistance in this national campaign to motivate domestic food production and build a self-reliant economy as envisioned in the Mahinda Chintanaya, the President said.
“You bestowed upon me the responsibility of fighting a war to eradicate terrorism. We are also confronting an economic battle to achieve a self-sufficient economy, and the Government has already initiated several formidable steps to win this battle too. More >>
President Rajapaksa made this appeal when he addressed the colourful Wap Maghul Mahothsavaya- 2007 (Inauguration of the Ploughing Festival-2007) in traditional style amid a large gathering of the peasant community, in the paddy fields of the Balagollagama Viharagama at Nikaweratiya.
The President recalled that the JVP should re-join the fold as an expression of gratitude to thousands of youth who died for its cause in 1988-89.
He called on the every citizen of Sri Lanka to fully support and co-operate in the Api Wawamu Rata Nagamu (Let us Cultivate and Uplift the Nation) national campaign to conquer the economic war and achieve a self-sustained economy.
“We fervently appeal to all party leaders including the JVP who helped us to come into power, to rally round the Government and lend their fullest assistance in this national campaign to motivate domestic food production and build a self-reliant economy as envisioned in the Mahinda Chintanaya, the President said.
“You bestowed upon me the responsibility of fighting a war to eradicate terrorism. We are also confronting an economic battle to achieve a self-sufficient economy, and the Government has already initiated several formidable steps to win this battle too. More >>
SLN facilitates Jaffna students' participation in Sports Festival in Colombo
The SLN recently facilitated the participation of a group of athletes representing Jaffna schools in the All Island School Sports Festival in Colombo.
Over 150 boys and girls had the opportunity to reach Trincomalee in style onboard Jetliner under heavy escort by Fast Attack Craft (FACs).
Navy spokesman Commander D. K. P. Dassanayake said that this was in line with the government policy of providing free transport to the needy.
Since the closure of Muhamalai entry/exit point on the Jaffna-Kandy (A9) road in August last year, the SLN had transported over 13,000 civilians. Dassanayake asserted that the transportation of Jaffna athletes to Colombo and back was a humanitarian gesture.
Jetliner and SLNS Shakthi are used to transport both civilians and security forces and police between Trncomalee and Kankesanthurai.
"We didn't want them to miss the sports festival," he said. The four-day event held at Sugathadasa International Stadium had attracted over 500 athletes from the Northern and Eastern Provinces. More >>
Over 150 boys and girls had the opportunity to reach Trincomalee in style onboard Jetliner under heavy escort by Fast Attack Craft (FACs).
Navy spokesman Commander D. K. P. Dassanayake said that this was in line with the government policy of providing free transport to the needy.
Since the closure of Muhamalai entry/exit point on the Jaffna-Kandy (A9) road in August last year, the SLN had transported over 13,000 civilians. Dassanayake asserted that the transportation of Jaffna athletes to Colombo and back was a humanitarian gesture.
Jetliner and SLNS Shakthi are used to transport both civilians and security forces and police between Trncomalee and Kankesanthurai.
"We didn't want them to miss the sports festival," he said. The four-day event held at Sugathadasa International Stadium had attracted over 500 athletes from the Northern and Eastern Provinces. More >>
Tesco pull their FSBO offering
Tesco have announced today that they are to withdraw their innovative 'For Sale By Owner' offering today and their website has been changed to reflect this. The news comes less than six months after the launch of the controversial private sellers offering and was the first significant brand to promote a 'FSBO' model. I understand that all of Tesco’s existing clients will receive full refunds plus a good will payment.
Tesco Property Market launched in the early summer offering the public a chance to sell their house privately for £199. The offering immediately ran into trouble with estate agents and the property portals one of whom, Fish4 had actually agreed to supply properties to Tesco to advertise on their web site. Fish4 received numerous complaints from their estate agent advertisers that they were helping Tesco to launch a rival offering using their stock and other portals stirred the pot with claims that they wouldn't have undermined their clients (the agents) by advertising with a brand like Tesco. Fish4 quickly saw the error of their ways and withdrew their support.
Tesco Property Market launched in the early summer offering the public a chance to sell their house privately for £199. The offering immediately ran into trouble with estate agents and the property portals one of whom, Fish4 had actually agreed to supply properties to Tesco to advertise on their web site. Fish4 received numerous complaints from their estate agent advertisers that they were helping Tesco to launch a rival offering using their stock and other portals stirred the pot with claims that they wouldn't have undermined their clients (the agents) by advertising with a brand like Tesco. Fish4 quickly saw the error of their ways and withdrew their support.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Tourism potential to be bigger than remittances, garments exports
The tourism industry suffered a terrible blow after the spate of violence in the country but according to British High Commissioner Dominick Chilcott, there are signs that tourist arrivals may be picking up again.
Addressing the Ceylon Hotel School Graduates Association last Saturday, Chilcott said that throughout these difficult times, British visitors have been more faithful than other to Sri Lanka . "Our numbers have dipped a bit too. But maybe because of the myriad ties that link our peoples, ties of kith, kin and friendship, building on many years of shared history, perhaps British people have been less easily put off."
Chilcott said the 2007 figures so far in Sri Lanka are dismal. For the first six months, tourist arrivals were down by 24%. "As I said earlier, there are signs that things are picking up again. Let's hope so." Chilcott said the tourism industry is massive world-wide. According to the World Trade Organization in 1998, tourism accounts for one third of the value of total trade in global services. It is among the top five foreign exchange earners for 80% of the world's countries, including Sri Lanka . In about one third of developing countries, tourism is the biggest foreign exchange earner of all. "And your industry is getting bigger."
For many developing countries, Chilcott said tourism is an absolutely key component of their national economic plans. "This is because tourism is able quickly to stimulate income and employment growth and, through taxes and excise duties, to bring in foreign exchange earnings and revenue for the government." Tourism creates jobs more quickly than most other sectors and is good at creating jobs for new workers or those with minimal skills, not confined to those directly employed by the tourist industry. The multiplier effect of tourism, the indirect or induced economic effect, is greater than for most other sectors. In Sri Lanka last year, official statistics showed that employment, indirect and direct, in the tourism sector grew up by 6% to 134,000.
"So many others benefit from the spending power of foreign holiday makers. Shop owners whether they sell souvenirs or the basic necessities of life, three-wheeler drivers, restaurant owners, suppliers of goods to restaurants and hotels, people who grow the produce or make the goods or import them that the suppliers buy to sell to the hotels and restaurants, the people walking up and down the beach selling sarongs, tambili and wooden models of fishing boats, the mahouts and their elephants, all of these and so many more depend to a greater or lesser extent on vibrant and healthy tourism, even though most of them would not describe themselves as working in the tourism industry."Chilcott added that tourism diversifies economies and therefore reduces the risk associated with too much reliance on one or two big sectors. Sri Lanka 's economy does seem to rely very much at present on remittances and the garment sector. Tourism has the potential to be as big or a bigger earner than these two.
Addressing the Ceylon Hotel School Graduates Association last Saturday, Chilcott said that throughout these difficult times, British visitors have been more faithful than other to Sri Lanka . "Our numbers have dipped a bit too. But maybe because of the myriad ties that link our peoples, ties of kith, kin and friendship, building on many years of shared history, perhaps British people have been less easily put off."
Chilcott said the 2007 figures so far in Sri Lanka are dismal. For the first six months, tourist arrivals were down by 24%. "As I said earlier, there are signs that things are picking up again. Let's hope so." Chilcott said the tourism industry is massive world-wide. According to the World Trade Organization in 1998, tourism accounts for one third of the value of total trade in global services. It is among the top five foreign exchange earners for 80% of the world's countries, including Sri Lanka . In about one third of developing countries, tourism is the biggest foreign exchange earner of all. "And your industry is getting bigger."
For many developing countries, Chilcott said tourism is an absolutely key component of their national economic plans. "This is because tourism is able quickly to stimulate income and employment growth and, through taxes and excise duties, to bring in foreign exchange earnings and revenue for the government." Tourism creates jobs more quickly than most other sectors and is good at creating jobs for new workers or those with minimal skills, not confined to those directly employed by the tourist industry. The multiplier effect of tourism, the indirect or induced economic effect, is greater than for most other sectors. In Sri Lanka last year, official statistics showed that employment, indirect and direct, in the tourism sector grew up by 6% to 134,000.
"So many others benefit from the spending power of foreign holiday makers. Shop owners whether they sell souvenirs or the basic necessities of life, three-wheeler drivers, restaurant owners, suppliers of goods to restaurants and hotels, people who grow the produce or make the goods or import them that the suppliers buy to sell to the hotels and restaurants, the people walking up and down the beach selling sarongs, tambili and wooden models of fishing boats, the mahouts and their elephants, all of these and so many more depend to a greater or lesser extent on vibrant and healthy tourism, even though most of them would not describe themselves as working in the tourism industry."Chilcott added that tourism diversifies economies and therefore reduces the risk associated with too much reliance on one or two big sectors. Sri Lanka 's economy does seem to rely very much at present on remittances and the garment sector. Tourism has the potential to be as big or a bigger earner than these two.
Extensive action plan for Jaffna humanitarian aid
Three Civil Military Co-ordination Liaison Officers (CMCLOs) to deal with issues on access and humanitarian assistance in the East-North and Wanni were appointed by the Consultative Committee of Humanitarian Assistance (CCHA) chaired by Disaster Management and Human Rights Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe in consultation with MP and Senior Advisor to the President Basil Rajapaksa and Defence, Public Security, Law and Order Ministry Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.
It was agreed that with the three CMCLOs, a representative from the Joint Operations Headquarters (JOH) would be present at all CCHA meetings to communicate effectively and implement policy decisions at operational level. The UN and INGOs also nominated focal points who would directly liaise with the CMCLOs on the field.
The five sub-committees, under the CCHA updated the members on the latest achievements. The Commissioner General of Essential Services (CGES) informed the Ministry of Nation Building and Estate Infrastructure Development (MNB & EID) to send 3,800T of food to Jaffna while another 1,500 T will be sent in the next consignment. This would cover the food requirements of 120,000 people for 2 1/2 months.
A stock of 4,038,200 diesel litres, 289,800 petrol litres and 510,300 kerosene litres is available in the Peninsula. Consignments carrying 3,800T of fertiliser have been sent to Jaffna.
It was agreed that with the three CMCLOs, a representative from the Joint Operations Headquarters (JOH) would be present at all CCHA meetings to communicate effectively and implement policy decisions at operational level. The UN and INGOs also nominated focal points who would directly liaise with the CMCLOs on the field.
The five sub-committees, under the CCHA updated the members on the latest achievements. The Commissioner General of Essential Services (CGES) informed the Ministry of Nation Building and Estate Infrastructure Development (MNB & EID) to send 3,800T of food to Jaffna while another 1,500 T will be sent in the next consignment. This would cover the food requirements of 120,000 people for 2 1/2 months.
A stock of 4,038,200 diesel litres, 289,800 petrol litres and 510,300 kerosene litres is available in the Peninsula. Consignments carrying 3,800T of fertiliser have been sent to Jaffna.
British Police investigating LTTE Human Rights champion
The British police have commenced an investigation into a death threat made by S V Kirubakaran, an LTTE human rights champion who was only earlier this month, submitting before the UN in Geneva that the Sri Lankan state is involved in killings and disappearances. S V Kirubakaran of 9, rue des Peupliers, 95140 - Garges les Gonesse, FRANCE is accused of threatening Douglas Wickremaratne, a British national living in London with the same fate as Lakshman Kadirgamar, the Sri Lankan foreign minister who was assassinated by a LTTE death squad.
Kirubakaran is the General Secretary of the TCHR (Tamil Centre for Human Rights) which represents the LTTE's human rights wing in Geneva, before the UN. Kirubakaran is married to Deirdre McConnell who also works as Director International Programme in the TCHR. This marriage was blessed by the late Anton Balasingham. The husband and wife team makes up the LTTE's human rights presence in Geneva and is at every single human rights forum open to them, which could be used to attack the Sri Lankan state. They use other human rights organisations which have accreditation at the UN to gain access.
Deception is the trade mark of these LTTE human rights champions. Deirdre McDonnell presents herself before the UN in Geneva and New York as being an official of various human rights groups which provides her with access. The UN itself investigated her some years ago for misrepresenting herself as being affiliated to the UN. In Ottawa a few years ago, she turned up at a LTTE event and presented herself as an advocate of children's rights. I was in the audience on that occasion. On the 2nd of June 2000 the "Bangkok Post" a Thai national newspaper exposed her as presenting herself to the Thai authorities as being a representative of Amnesty International. Amnesty International issued a denial. British law enforcement authorities have a comprehensive dossier of her activities.
On 3rd April 2000, the LTTE marched on the UN buildings in Geneva and among the speakers was Deirdre McDonnell. She ended her speech, with a rallying cry in Tamil, "TOMORROW THAMIL EELAM WILL BE BORN FROM BLOOD" ("Naattu-kor Thamil Eelam Nalei Pirakkum", "Naleki Eratthathil Pirakkum") to the great applause of the LTTE supporters in the audience. This was somewhat strange for someone who claims to champion human rights. The event was monitored by law enforcement authorities.
Kirubakaran is the General Secretary of the TCHR (Tamil Centre for Human Rights) which represents the LTTE's human rights wing in Geneva, before the UN. Kirubakaran is married to Deirdre McConnell who also works as Director International Programme in the TCHR. This marriage was blessed by the late Anton Balasingham. The husband and wife team makes up the LTTE's human rights presence in Geneva and is at every single human rights forum open to them, which could be used to attack the Sri Lankan state. They use other human rights organisations which have accreditation at the UN to gain access.
Deception is the trade mark of these LTTE human rights champions. Deirdre McDonnell presents herself before the UN in Geneva and New York as being an official of various human rights groups which provides her with access. The UN itself investigated her some years ago for misrepresenting herself as being affiliated to the UN. In Ottawa a few years ago, she turned up at a LTTE event and presented herself as an advocate of children's rights. I was in the audience on that occasion. On the 2nd of June 2000 the "Bangkok Post" a Thai national newspaper exposed her as presenting herself to the Thai authorities as being a representative of Amnesty International. Amnesty International issued a denial. British law enforcement authorities have a comprehensive dossier of her activities.
On 3rd April 2000, the LTTE marched on the UN buildings in Geneva and among the speakers was Deirdre McDonnell. She ended her speech, with a rallying cry in Tamil, "TOMORROW THAMIL EELAM WILL BE BORN FROM BLOOD" ("Naattu-kor Thamil Eelam Nalei Pirakkum", "Naleki Eratthathil Pirakkum") to the great applause of the LTTE supporters in the audience. This was somewhat strange for someone who claims to champion human rights. The event was monitored by law enforcement authorities.
The fight to protect the Ozone layer: Sri Lanka wins UNEP award
When “Ozone-friendly”, “CFC free” labels started to appear in the early ’90s on products such as refrigerators, to many, it seemed just another marketing strategy, but in fact, these “ozone-friendly” alternatives may save lives. Skin cancer, cataracts and problems in the immune system are some of the effects of exposure to dangerous Ultra Violet (UV) rays that penetrate Ozone Holes in the atmosphere.
Scientists identified the threat caused by the depletion of the Ozone Layer that shields the earth, by gases such as Chloro fluoro carbons (CFCs) in the early ’80s. Knowing the grave consequences, the global community initiated the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer in 1985. As the legal instrument for the Vienna Convention, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer came into force in 1987.
Being a Third World country, one might be forgiven for thinking that Sri Lanka would lag behind in achieving such international commitment. But to the contrary, the National Ozone Unit (NOU) of Sri Lanka has driven all parties to achieve the Montreal targets ahead of the allotted time. In recognition of their efforts, the NOU received the award for Best Implementers of the Montreal Protocol last week at a ceremony in Montreal, Canada that celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Protocol.
The citation on the award given by the UNEP read - “Sri Lanka Ozone Unit known globally for many of its contributions to efforts to address Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) including its effective implementation projects to enable achievements of the Protocol’s reduction requirements, its effective licensing programs and its creative public awareness activities.”
Dr. W.L. Sumathipala, head of the NOU, who just returned from Canada with the award, praised the parties that have been supporting them in the fight to protect the Ozone Layer.
Sri Lanka ratified both the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol on December 15, 1989. The Montreal Protocol has been signed by 192 countries at present. Each country has been given a set of annual targets to reduce the usage of ODS depending upon the base levels and with a deadline of complete elimination by 2010.
The NOU of Sri Lanka was established under the Ministry of Environment in 1994, to implement the Montreal Protocol and related activities. Initially called the Montreal Protocol Unit, it was later named the National Ozone Unit. The 13th summit of Montreal Protocol countries was held in Colombo and Sri Lanka was nominated as the president of the Bureau of the Montreal Protocol countries for 2001 and has been vice president both in 2000 and 2005.
Scientists identified the threat caused by the depletion of the Ozone Layer that shields the earth, by gases such as Chloro fluoro carbons (CFCs) in the early ’80s. Knowing the grave consequences, the global community initiated the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer in 1985. As the legal instrument for the Vienna Convention, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer came into force in 1987.
Being a Third World country, one might be forgiven for thinking that Sri Lanka would lag behind in achieving such international commitment. But to the contrary, the National Ozone Unit (NOU) of Sri Lanka has driven all parties to achieve the Montreal targets ahead of the allotted time. In recognition of their efforts, the NOU received the award for Best Implementers of the Montreal Protocol last week at a ceremony in Montreal, Canada that celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Protocol.
The citation on the award given by the UNEP read - “Sri Lanka Ozone Unit known globally for many of its contributions to efforts to address Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) including its effective implementation projects to enable achievements of the Protocol’s reduction requirements, its effective licensing programs and its creative public awareness activities.”
Dr. W.L. Sumathipala, head of the NOU, who just returned from Canada with the award, praised the parties that have been supporting them in the fight to protect the Ozone Layer.
Sri Lanka ratified both the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol on December 15, 1989. The Montreal Protocol has been signed by 192 countries at present. Each country has been given a set of annual targets to reduce the usage of ODS depending upon the base levels and with a deadline of complete elimination by 2010.
The NOU of Sri Lanka was established under the Ministry of Environment in 1994, to implement the Montreal Protocol and related activities. Initially called the Montreal Protocol Unit, it was later named the National Ozone Unit. The 13th summit of Montreal Protocol countries was held in Colombo and Sri Lanka was nominated as the president of the Bureau of the Montreal Protocol countries for 2001 and has been vice president both in 2000 and 2005.
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