Supreme Court says 18th Amendment consistent with Constitution

The Supreme Court has approved the 18th Constitutional Amendment. This was announced by the Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa in Parliament today. The Supreme Court’s determination about the 18th Amendment was directed to the Speaker recently.

The Speaker said the Constitutional Amendment Bill which received the nod of the Cabinet, was directed by the President to the Cabinet according to Article 122 of the Constitution. The Court has determined that the Bill under the title “18th Amendment to the Constitution” is consistent with 82-1 of the Constitution. As mentioned in 82-5 of the Constitution, it is necessary that the Bill be adopted with a special majority. The Speaker also said that as stated in Clause 83 of the Constitution, there are no provisions in the Bill which requires to hold a referendum to seek public approval. … Continue Reading

UNP MP Upeksha Swarnamali supports Amendment

Gampaha District UNP Parliamentarian Upeksha Swarnamali has also pledged her support to the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

She met President Rajapaksa at Temple Trees this afternoon and intimated to the President of her decision to support the Constitutional Amendment. Expressing views, she said the country’s future will lie on the far sighted programmed of the President. She further said that she would be voting in favour of the Constitutional Amendment in Parliament tomorrow. Upeksha Swarnamali contested the Gampaha District from the UNP and received the second highest preferential votes. She rose to popularity from the “Paba” teledrama telecast over ITN. It was through this popularity that she was able to become a Parliamentarian.

UNP MP Abdul Cader to join Government

UNP Parliamentarian Abdul Cader has announced that he would be crossing over to the Government group tomorrow.

Mr. Cader participated in the Emergency debate in Parliament today. During the debate, he said that he was with the Government on the Constitutional Amendment.

Mahanayake says everyone should support the Amendment

Everyone should approve the Constitutional change targeted to improve the living standards of the people and uplift the country. This is the opinion of the Asgiriya Mahanayake, the Most Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha thera.

The Mahanayake underlined that all groups should support the desire of the President to take the country to the place he expects. The President’s term of office is not extended through the constitutional change. An opportunity is afforded to elect a person of the people’s choice. As such, the Prelate noted that he does not approve those who oppose it. The President was bringing in a constitutional amendment with an honest desire and for the benefit of the people. Therefore, the Opposition should give its support. There are signs of a clear change in the country within the next five years. Mega development projects are operative in every part of the country. … Continue Reading

Amendment will solidify Public Service

The 18th Constitutional Amendment will further solidity the Public Service. This reference has been made by Deputy Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama.

Making clarifications to newsmen today, he said according to the 17th Amendment, various persons from outside Parliament represent the 10-Member Constitutional Council. A significant feature of the new amendment is that all five members of the Council come from within Parliament. He queried as to who will shoulder the responsibility of the outsiders represent the Constitutional Council. He pointed out that as a result of the new amendment, there is more democracy as the Council will comprise the Speaker, the Prime Minister, the Opposition Leader and two members nominated from Parliament. Therefore, there is a responsibility within Parliament. This will create an environment to criticize or discuss the activities of the members of the Council. The Deputy Minister said he considered this as entrusting more powers to Parliament.

Support from parties and organizations for Amendment

Several political parties and organisations are supportive of the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

The Janasetha Peramuna expressed its support to the change. Mahinda Rajapaksa is a bold Administrator who can liberate the country from alien enemy forces ensuring the security of the country’s future. The Ven. Battaramulle Seelaratana thera, the leader of the Peramuna said their support is with the Constitutional change.

The Sri Lanka Freedom Professional Organisation have appreciated the new amendment. The President is a leader needed by the people. As such, the organization said they are joining with patriotic forces to amend the Constitution which will approve the administration of the country for a long period by such a leader. … Continue Reading

Demonstration supporting Amendment

A demonstration expressing support to the 18th Constitutional Amendment was held at the Western Provincial Council today.

Government members of the Provincial Council joined in this demonstration which was held before the commencement of the Provincial Council sessions. A resolution pledging support to the amendments was thereafter adopted. UNP members attended the sessions attired in black. A notable feature was the support given by the Muslim Congress member to the Constitutional amendment joining in the demonstration along with Government members.

Emergency passed sans vote

The United National Party has walked out of Parliament. The Emergency extension has been approved without a vote.

Moving the resolution to extend the Emergency in Parliament today, Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne said that based on information given by terrorists taken into custody, a large haul of weapons concealed by the terrorists for their use is being recovered. This was been done in a systematic way. The Government’s main intention is to see that a war will not recur. To make this a reality, the Prime Minister emphasized that the honest intention of approving all these bills was to make it a reality.

Re-open defunct Rice Production Centres – President

President Rajapaksa has instructed the Ministry of Cooperatives and Internal Trade to immediately launch a programme for the reopening of Rice Production Centres which are now defunct.

He called for the launch of a programme for the reopening of Rice Production Centres which are now defunct in various parts of the country including the Wanni, after the conduct of a survey. The President was addressing a meeting to review progress of the Cooperatives and Internal Trade Ministry at Temple Trees. He gave instructions to the Ministry to craft a streamlined programme to meet the rice requirements of the country. He underlined the need for the maintenance of a buffer stock of essential food items. Attention was drawn at this meeting to information received by the President on the improper activities of institutions coming under the Ministry and its shortcomings. … Continue Reading

New building for Cancer Institute

President Rajapaksa declares open a new building of the Maharagama National Cancer Institute. The wards complex was built in memory of the mothers of the President and the First Lady.

The new two-storied wards complex was constructed to bestow merits on Dandina Samarasinghe, the mother of President Rajapaksa and Violet Wickramasinghe, the mother of Shiranthi Rajapaksa. Personal donations of the Rajapaksa family including the President and philanthropists were used to put up the building. Giving his views, Specialist Dr. Kanishka Karunaratne, the Hospital Director referred to the example set by this noble act to the entire country. Specialist Dr. Jayantha Balawardena also spoke.

NSB ceremony under President’s patronage

NSB has organized a special ceremony. It was held under the patronage of President Rajapaksa.

The ceremony to award the 2010 NSB “Hapan” Scholarships honours and the launch of a national savings promotion programme were held at Temple Trees under the President’s patronage. Scholarships were awarded to students who had received the highest marks at the Fifth Grade Scholarship examination. Western Province Governor Alavi Mouland, Minister Bandula Gunawardena, Deputy Minister Chandra Gajadeera and NSB Chairman Pradeep Kariyawasam were present at this function.

Another UNP MP pledges support to Government

Another UNP Parliamentarian has announced his support for the government.

At a news briefing at the Ministry of Cooperatives and Internal Trade this morning, he said his aim is to vote in support of the Constitutional changes. He pointed out that supporters of the Dodangaslanda electorate when earlier informed of his decision in the past few days, they all approved it and said it was a prudent decision. His supporters wanted him to make a vital contribution to the development process. He said the majority in his electorate were supporting him.

A well organized plan can minimize problems – President

President Rajapaksa is of the view that problems could be minimized to a considerable extent by working according to a plan. The President was addressing officials of the Ministry of Cooperatives and Internal Trade.

The progress review meeting of the Ministry was held at Temple Trees. The President the available resources should be exploited to the maximum. It is important with regard to the paddy warehouses as well. The President issued instructions to overcome the shortages prevailing at Economic Centres. Minister Johnston Fernando, Deputy Minister Neomal Perera and Presidential Secretary Lalith Weeratunge were among the officials present at this meeting.

Tiger terrorists mulling over leaving for Canada

A group of tiger terrorists in Thailand is reported to be waiting to board a ship to Canada.

Reports say they are part of the group that has already fled to Canada. This group is believed to be attempting to reach Canada as refugees depending on the response of the Canadian Government. Last October, 79 Tamils claiming to be refugees arrived in Victoria aboard the vessel Ocean Lady. They have all been released pending refugee hearings. More Tamil asylum-seekers arrived in Canada aboard the MV ‘Sun Sea’ last month. Investigations are being carried out in this connection while the Canadian Government has identified nearly 50 of them as terrorists. Canadian authorities say that stringent action will be taken against terrorist activities as well as human smuggling. However according to international reports another group of terrorists are waiting to board a ship.

Concept of Youth Parliament can promote harmony

Minister Dallas Allahapperuma has said that harmony will be fostered in society through the concept of Youth Parliament.

The Minister the President’s desire is not to make the Youth Services Council or the other youth organisations pro-SLFP or anti-UNP but to colour them with the dynamism of the youth. It is expected to form the Youth Parliament by January next year. 300 Parliamentarians will be appointed by selecting one from each Pradeshiya Balamandalaya. It will be empowered with responsibility and would not be limited to the name alone. Portfolios allocated will be similar to that of the real Parliament. The Minister was addressing the Youth Convention of the Matara District. It was organized by the Youth Services Council.

Entire nation will be unified – PM

Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne has said that a strong and proud nation will be moulded by unifying the entire nation.

The Prime Minster said that if the President’s programme is carried out successfully Sri Lanka would become one of the developed nations in the world. The World Bank has identified the programmes carried out in the country as successful. He said that the children should also be strengthened to serve the nation.

The Prime Minister was addressing a function to present the Act of Appointment to the Ven. Walpola Sarananda thera as the Sanganayaka of the Ihala-Dolos-patthuwa in the Wayamba Province. Deputy Ministers T.B. Ekanayake and Jayaratne Herath were among those who participated in the occasion.

Job Fair for ex-LTTE combatants

The Government is to hold a ‘Job – Fair’ for the youth of the Northern Region especially ex-LTTE combatants who are being integrated into society following their rehabilitation.

Commissioner General for Rehabilitation Brig. Sudantha Ranasinghe said through this effort, the business enterprises will not only get an opportunity to participate in a humanitarian exercise but also give an opportunity to fulfill their corporate social responsibility. The ‘Job – Fair’ is to be held in Vavuniya from the 25th to the 27th of this month. He said the President and the Defence Secretary have issued clear instructions that each and every ex-LTTE combatant should be physically, mentally and spiritually rehabilitated before he or she is reintegrated into civil society as peaceful and useful citizens who could work towards the development of the country.

Dengue eradication before school re-opening

The third school term commenced today. A notable feature is the launching of dengue eradication programmes before the re-opening.

Minister Bandula Gunawardena who participated in the dengue eradication programme held at the Homagama President’s College said the programme should be considered as important. The schools were informed through a circular to carryout a dengue eradication programme yesterday. Accordingly Shramadana Campaigns were held with the participation of Principals, teachers and parents.

Earlier an Education Ministry circular had instructed the schools to carryout dengue eradication programmes with the participation of teachers, old pupils, parents and voluntary organizations. Accordingly dengue eradication programmes were carried out in schools throughout yesterday.

Measures introduced for the preservation of Sigiriya frescoes

The National Heritage and Cultural Affairs Ministry will soon introduce micro-climatic monitoring equipment, electro-optic holographic machinery and infra-red thermography techniques at Sigiriya rock fortress.

This measure is being taken to ensure long-term preservation of the historic frescoes and mirror wall. This is in keeping with the instructions of the President, and Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi. The Committee appointed by the President to identify ways to preserve the Sigiriya frescoes after his recent inspection visit to assess the current state of the frescoes, has recommended the need to import modern equipment and machinery to prevent the rock paintings from being damaged by air pollutants and biological agents.

Supreme Court approves Constitutional Changes

The Supreme Court approved the Government’s proposed Constitutional Amendments. Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa announced the Supreme Court’s decision on the 18th Amendment to the Constitution in Parliament today.

Following Article 122 of the Constitution, Supreme Court delivered its decision on the amendments to the President and the Speaker recently after they were presented to the Court. A five-judge bench of Supreme Court took up the Draft Bill approved by the Cabinet to decide whether the proposed amendments are consistent with the Constitution. The Supreme Court in its determination further mentioned that a two thirds majority was necessary for adoption. The Supreme Court further rules that a referendum was not necessary.

Following the Speaker’s announcement today on the Order Paper of the parliament, the Draft Bill will be presented tomorrow to the legislature by Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne for debate. The legislature will vote on the bill after the debate at the end of day’s proceedings.

The ruling alliance is confident of passing the Bill with a two-third majority in the 225-member parliament with at least 160 votes in favor.

Japan appreciates positive developments in Sri Lanka

The manner in which Sri Lanka routed terrorism is excellent. A Japanese delegation has applauded the President for ridding the country of terrorism. The team is in the island at the invitation of the Ven. Pelpola Vipassi thera. The Japanese Mission met the President at Temple Trees yesterday.

The delegation intimated to the President their satisfaction over the total elimination of terrorism from Sri Lanka. They assured President Rajapaksa of every possible assistance for his Government to carry forward the meg development programmes mooted in the Island. They opined that they are visiting Sri Lanka to further solidify the religious and cultural ties existing between the two countries from the ancient past. The President handed over a Buddha statue turned out of Sandalwood to the Japanese Nayaka thera. He also presented Buddha statues to other members of the Japanese delegation. President’s Secretary Lalith Weeratunga was present. … Continue Reading

JNP supports constitutional changes

The Jathika Nidahas Peramuna (JNP) expresses support to the new Constitutional Amendments. Briefing newsmen today, Minister Wimal Weerawansa said that the amendments will bring together the Parliament and the Executive.

The Minister said that they would be supporting the Constitutional amendment on Wednesday the 8th. He pointed out that accusations made against the amendments are baseless. There is no truth in these accusations. The main accusation is that the Government is moving towards dictatorship. He emphasized that there is no need to amend the constitution if the Government wanted to move towards dictatorship. The prevailing constitution is quite sufficient if the Government wanted to do so.

Sri Lankan born pilot killed in New Zealand plane crash

A Lankan born Queenstown skydive Pilot, Chaminda Senadhira was killed along with eight other skydivers when their plane crashed in Fox Glacier in New Zealand.

The plane crash is reported to be the worst in New Zealand aviation for almost 17 years. Originally from Sri Lanka, Mr. Senadhira had moved to Germany when he was seven and then to New Zealand at the age of 22 to train as a Pilot.

33 year old Chaminda Senadhira who was at the helm of the plane when it crashed was a veteran skydive pilot with thousands of hours of experience. New Zealand Skydive Auckland Operations Manager said that Pilot Chaminda Senadhira, trained at the Company´s Mercer base before moving South. Also killed were dive-masters, Adam Bennett, Michael Suter, Christopher McDonald, and Rodney Miller, all of New Zealand.

Constitutional changes pledged in the Mahinda Chinthana – President

The President is responsible to Parliament under the new Constitutional Amendment. This was emphasized by President Rajapaksa to media heads. According to the amendment, it is mandatory for the President to appear in Parliament once in three months. The President told them that this was not a hurriedly arranged amendment.

The meeting between the President and the media chiefs was held at Temple Trees today. The President reminisced that at the last Presidential election he placed the “Mahinda Chintana – Extended Version” before the people assuring to build a new Sri Lanka. According to this policy, a pledge was given to make the Executive a trustworthy position. What is now left was to launch mega development programmes to transform Sri Lanka into “Asia’s Miracle”. Many of these development projects are already in progress. … Continue Reading

Indian Army Chief meets PM

Visiting Indian Army Commander General Vijaya Kumar Singh holds discussions with the Prime Minister, Government representatives and the Defence hierarchy.

General Vijaya Kumar Singh met Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne at the Prime Minister’s Office today. He also met External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris. The meeting took place at the Foreign Ministry. General Singh also met Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa at the Defence Ministry.

A ceremony was organized at the Army Headquarters to greet him. He was accorded a special Guard-of-Honour. Army Commander Lt. Gen. Jagath Jayasuriya and many senior officials were present. Thereafter, General Singh was accorded a warm welcome at the Air Force Headquarters by its Chief, Air Chief Marshal Roshan Gunatilake.