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."
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
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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