President calls for report on Naval fishing ban

Ananth Palakidnar

COLOMBO: President Mahinda Rajapakse called for a report from the Navy Commander on the issue of a fishing ban on the coastal belt in order to bring about a solution.

President has also instructed his Secretary Lalith Weeratunga to arrange a video conference with all the parties concerned such as the Public Servants, Investors and Entrepreneurs, the fishing community and the general public from Trincomalee with the President himself participating with Minister Rohitha Bogollagama.

The President directive follows Minister Rohitha Bogollagama's visit last week to Trincomalee. Minister Bogollagama briefed President Rajapakse on his findings.

Minister Bogollagama in Trincomalee during the meeting with the Chamber of Commerce it was brought to the notice of the Minister that the fishing ban imposed in the area has effected the small scale fishermen who earn their livelihood through fishing in the coastal areas.

The Road network of the area needs improvement, while new access roads are required for Kappalthurai Industrial Zone.

An effective paddy purchasing mechanism to be put in place.

To construct an alternate Road through Kantalai Town, to avoid heavy vehicles using the road over the Kantalai Tank Bund.

Facilities to be provided to Investors and entrepreneurs to obtain necessary finances without any delay.

Provision of necessary facilities to public servants working in the East. To upgrade the services provided by the public servants to the General Public in the area.

Minister Rohitha Bogollagama said that a SME Bank Branch will be opened in Trincomalee during April.