Govt. MPs express mixed views on exporting monkeys to China

Published

2 years ago

April 30, 2023

editor

During a meeting of government Parliamentarians, MP Jayantha Weerasinghe P.C. has reportedly opposed to the proposal of exporting the endemic monkey – Toque macaque, to China.

He has opposed the move, claiming that the animals were going to be exported for a certain body part to be eaten.

Noting that he too once had a Toque macaque as a pet, MP Weerasinghe said he therefore knew much about the species.

However, Kandy MP – Gunatillake Rajapakshe had urged the troop of Toque macaque monkeys in the ‘Udawatta Kele’ in Kandy to be exported as they caused much damage to crops in the area.

It is also reported that the MPs have expressed their opinions in favour and against the move.

It has also been emphasized during the meeting that reports claiming the animals will be exported for food, are false and that there are specialized farms breeding animals for that purpose.

Heat Index expected at ‘Caution’ level

Published

3 hours ago

April 16, 2025

editor

Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is expected to increase up to ‘Caution level’ tomorrow (April 16) at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts, the Meteorology Department warned.

Effect of the heat index on the human body is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.

Accordingly, people at jobsites are urged to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade as often as possible.

Also, constant checks should be made up on the elderly and the sick.

Adults are advised to not leave children unattended and limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.

The public is also urged to wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.

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Heavy traffic on Ella-Wellawaya road

Published

3 hours ago

April 16, 2025

editor

Heavy traffic congestion has been reported along the Ella-Wellawaya road due to continuous rainfall.

According to the police, vehicle queues had stretched up to five kilometres.
Motorists are advised to use alternate routes to avoid the traffic congestion.

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Govt. needs a plan to face US taxes – RW

Published

7 hours ago

April 16, 2025

editor

Former President – Ranil Wickremesinghe has emphasized that the Sri Lankan government needs to unveil a plan to face the situation created by the US reciprocal taxes.

Making a special statement, Mr. Wickremesinghe points out that although the taxes have been paused at the moment, it will not be scrapped altogether as it is a part of Trump’s manifesto.

As a direct consequence of these taxes, around 100,000 jobs are at risk, he warned, adding that the consequences would ripple across the broader economy.

“Even if the taxes imposed on Sri Lanka are slashed, we will be compelled to pay taxes of 25% – 30%, resulting in exports still declining” he said.

Noting that Sri Lanka will have to generate funds to start setting its debts by 2028 as per the debt restructuring programme, Mr. Wickremesinghe emphasizes that the Government will have to treat this as an emergency situation and come out with a plan to face the situation.

He emphasizes that firstly, discussions must be held with the US and secondly, it must be planned how to solve this issue domestically.