Richard Pathirana dies

The death occurred yesterday of veteran SLFP politician former Minister Richard Pathirana (71).

He died at his Colombo residence after a prolonged illness.

The remains will be kept at his Kithulampitiya, Galle residence for the public to pay their last respects from today.

He entered Parliament in 1983 wining a by-election held for the Akmeemana electorate.

He held several ministerial portfolios in a number of Governments, but was most widely known as a Minister of Education. Among the other portfolios were Public Administration, Home Affairs and Southern Development. He was also a one-time Chief Opposition Whip. He was the Galle District leader for the SLFP at many elections.

A student of Richmond College, Galle, his first career was teaching. He is survived by two daughters and one son. Funeral arrangements will be notified later.