Minister Fernandopulle fought against evils of terrorism - Prime Minister

Minister Jeyaraj Fernandopulle's name will go into Sri Lanka's history as a national hero, Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka said participating at the Minister's funeral yesterday which was held under full State honour.

The Minister fought against the evils of terrorism and separatism and was a good friend of the people transcending religious, racial and ethnic differences, the Prime Minister said.

"Our responsibility is to do everything possible to create a peaceful Sri Lanka that was cherished by the Minister Fernandopulle," he said.

The Premier said the people who dedicated their lives to public service always neglect their personal security. Such people would never die."

The late Minister showered true affection on the people, he added. The Prime Minister said he would like to describe the late Minister as a universal figure. Minister Karu Jayasuriya spoke on behalf of the organising committee of the funeral arrangement.

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva read President Mahinda Rajapaksa's condolence message.

The vote of thanks was delivered by the Minister's son Bhanuka and daughter Samudhi.