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From A. W. Gunawardhana - Matara Central Correspondent

The Government is aiming at a noble solution to the ethnic issue within the framework of an undivided Sri Lanka: with the certainty of economic and political freedom to consolidate the spirit of such a solution an unselfish nation devoted to implement and execute development programmes, is the prime need of the day. Only a nation moulded and shaped through sports could meet that challenges, said the President of the Matara District Sports Foundation, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources and Deputy Minister of Southern Region Mahinda Wijesekara.

He was speaking at a ceremony held recently at the Broadway cinema hall, Matara - to felicitate the sportsmen and women from the Matara district who excelled at national and international levels recently.

Fifty seven (57) sportsmen and women were presented 'credit' awards and colours. Another four trainers were also presented 'credit' awards at the occasion.

Minister Wijesekera said a remark was overheard at this occasion, as to whether politicians should indulge in sports, short answer to that is when genuine sportsmen and women take to politics, they will be people-friendly and genuine workers.

It is heartening to note that there are sponsors who volunteer to promote various sports.

During the time I was playing volleyball there was none even to donate at least a net or a ball. Rs. 16 million will be allocated this year to sixteen divisional secretariats in the district.

Rs. 42.5 million will be allocated for sports activities in schools. Another Rs. 47 million will be allocated to provide sports gear last year, colours night called Bak-Maha-Ulela was held to present gifts to talented sportsmen and women.

The Government will do its best to foster sports activities. Prime Minister and Sports Minister are doing their best to promote sports activities.

Deputy Minister of Power and Energy Sagala Ratnayake said, our Sportsmen and women have reached greater heights with the most modern facilities at their disposal. Government has realised the value of promoting sports.

That is why a colossal sum of money is being allocated for the purpose. If we are to reach greater heights in the field of sports, Urban and Rural sportsmen and women should be provided equal facilities.

President of the Sri Lanka Sports Association and Chairman of the National Youth Council Sunil Jayaweera, and the President of the Association of Track and Field Sports, Matara district and the Vice Chancellor of the Ruhuna University Professor Ranjith Senarathna also spoke.

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