Fishermen in Negombo get rafts

by Irangika Range

The Small and Rural Industries and the Regional Infrastructure Development Minister S. B. Nawinna handed over 30 rafts to fishermen in Negombo area which was badly affected by the tsunami. Funding is a total of Rs. 1 million for these thirty craft which has been provided by the Rotary Club in Nikaweratiya, a grant from its UK based Rotary Club.

Minister Nawinna told the Daily News that this donation would improve the fishermen's livelihood by encouraging them to get back to their professions.

"There is a need to ensure the survival of the small-scale fishermen in the aftermath of the tsunami. Although the tsunami has devastated the costal belt the government has focused on further developing the fishing industry under its strategic plans," the Minister said.