Siriliya Daycare Centre to shelter over 230 children

Chaminda Perera and Mahinda Aluthgedara

First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa yesterday said all measures have been taken to ensure the safety and welfare of children who lost their parents due to the terrorist atrocities.

She was speaking at the opening of Siriliya Sevana Daycare Centre in Vavuniya where more than 230 children are expected to be given accommodation.

"As a mother, I will take the responsibility to meet their needs and ensure a better future for these children," she said.

The authorities have identified more than 230 children whose parents were killed in terrorist atrocities. This five storeyed daycare centre will initially accommodate 125 children. First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa said she will continue this program to ensure that all parentless children receive education, health and other facilities at the Centre.

This Centre looks after these children until they are 18. Close relatives could take custody of these children after proving their identity

The Child Development and Women's Empowerment Ministry has spent Rs. 2 million for the provision of equipment to the centre

Ven . Kirinde Assagi Thera of Hunupitiya Gangaramaya, Industrial Development Minister Kumara Welgama, Vavuniya District Secretary G.M.S. Charles and Sri Lanka Navy Seva Vanitha Unit Chairperson Ashoka Karannagoda were among those present.