Sri Lankan fisherfolk continue hunger strike in Seychelles

Published

1 year ago

March 9, 2024

editor

The hunger strike initiated by Sri Lankan fisherfolk, who were rescued from the captivity of an armed group in Seychelles and are currently detained in a port in the country, has entered its 9th day.

The strike, launched on March 1st, is a plea for their immediate repatriation.

The fast is being undertaken by six individuals who were aboard the Lorenzo Putha 4multi-day fishing trawler.

Departing from the port of Dikovita on its maiden voyage on January 12th, the trawler encountered capture by an armed group during fishing activities.

The Seychelles security forces later conducted a successful rescue operation, leading to their current detention at a port in Seychelles.

The fisherfolk, hailing from Marawila in Chilaw, include three members from the same family.

Police media spokesman resigns

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

editor

The Sri Lanka Police Media Spokesman SSP Buddhika Manatunga has tendered his resignation from the position.

According to reports, he has handed over his letter of resignation to the Acting IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya.

Speaker endorses certificate on Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

editor

Hon. Speaker of Parliament endorses the certificate on the Bill

The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was passed without amendments in Parliament today (20).

The debate on the Second Reading of this Bill was held today from 5:40 PM to 7:10 PM. Subsequently, following the consideration of the Bill at the Committee Stage, the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was passed in Parliament.

The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was presented to Parliament for its First Reading on 01.03.2025.

Furthermore, Speaker, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne endorsed the certificate on Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill today (20), in accordance with Article 79 of the Constitution.

Accordingly, this Bill will be enforced as the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Act No. 02 of 2025.

News

Japan provides fire trucks to Sri Lanka

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

editor

The Government of Japan, through a grant assistance of JPY 300 million, has decided to provide state-of-the-art Japanese fire trucks to the Government of Sri Lanka to strengthen disaster response capabilities in the country’s Export Processing Zones (EPZs), ensuring a safer business environment and contributing to economic and social stability.

Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka – Mr. Akio Isomata SOMATA and Secretary of the Finance Ministry – Mr. K. M. M. Siriwardana, today (March 20) signed and exchanged notes in Colombo on this grant assistance.

The EPZs play a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s economy by attracting investment and driving industrial growth.

The increasing risks of fire hazards and other emergencies risk hampering its critical functions.

The Japanese fire trucks, equipped with cutting-edge technology, will bolster the capacity of EPZs, safeguarding businesses, workers, and communities.

The project also underscores Japan’s unwavering commitment to addressing Sri Lanka’s socio-economic challenges and promoting sustainable development.