CABINET DECISION

* Rajarata University gets Equipment

The Rajarata University Medicine and Allied Science faculty was inaugurated in 2006 and the first batch of students will commence their final year in March this year. This Medical Faculty has to conform to the criteria laid down by the Sri Lanka Medical Council (SLMC) which is the statutory body for approval of standards in medical schools in the country.

A ward complex consisting of wards, operating theatres, intensive care units, labour rooms and many other specialist areas are being constructed near the Teaching Hospital, Anuradhapura.

On a joint proposal made by Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena and Higher Education Minister S B Dissanayake, Cabinet approval has been granted for the procurement of equipment to the medical faculty units at a cost of Rs 250 million.

*Institute of Applied Statistics to be incorporated

On a proposal made by Technology and Research Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, Cabinet approval was granted to present the Institute of Applied Statistics, Sri Lanka (Incorporation) Bill, prepared by the Legal Draftsman in Parliament.

Among the main objectives of this Bill are to promote and assist the advancement of Applied Statistics for furtherance of research, development, education, training and undertake research work in this field.

*Plan for maritime wrecks management

Shipwrecks are considered as the heritage of the nation, representing historical,cultural and archaeological value and old wrecks are a major attraction for underwater photographers, divers and tourists.

On a proposal made by Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Dr Rajitha Senaratne, Cabinet approval was granted for the preparation of a long-term broad based management plan for Sri Lanka’s maritime wrecks and under water cultural heritage based on a thorough survey to be carried out by NARA and in association with the Ministries of Economic Development, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, Environment and National Heritage.

Sri Lanka to host IOTC

The Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) is an Inter-governmental Organization mandated to manage tuna and tuna like species in the Indian Ocean and adjacent seas and Sri Lanka is one of the Members of this Commission. On a proposal made by Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Minister Dr Rajitha Senaratne, the Cabinet approved the hosting of the 15th Session of the IOTC in sri Lanka from March 14 to 22.

This will take place in Colombo with the participation of 200 members from IOTC Member countries.

Cabinet reviews water supply damages

Cabinet reviewed the badly affected situation of the Water Supply Schemes and Systems in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Ampara, Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Vavuniya due to the recent floods. Cabinet observed that arrangements have been made by Water Supply and Drainage Minister Dinesh Gunawardena to provide drinking water for the people of the affected areas through bowsers.

Arrangements have also been made to disinfect the well using bleaching powder and water purification tablets with the assistance of the health authorities.