Low quality FM channels, a menace - Minister Weerawansa

Construction, Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities Minister Wimal Weerawansa has warned that there had been a grave cultural setback in the country due to certain low level programmes broadcast by various FM radio channels.

He said such harmful programmes broadcast by these radio channels cause severe damage to Sri Lankan culture as such programmes do not ensure the mental or spiritual development of the human race.

The minister said that certain programmes broadcast by various radio announcers without having rehearsals do not allow any meaningful dialogues and result in promoting unrest among youth population.

Minister Weerawansa made this observation at the 50th death anniversary of the well-known poet Sagara Palansooriya held at Maradana Tower Hall with the participation of many of the great poet's fans and lovers of arts.

Minister Weerawansa paid tributes to poet Sagara Palansooriya who rendered yeoman service to Sinhala literature. He spoke of the importance of giving an awareness of this great poet to the younger generation who should have a sound understanding of this type of literary personnel.

Children of Sagara Palansooriyat, Keerthi Vijaya Palansooriya, Lakvijaya Sagara Palansooriya and Geetha Kumara Palansooriya garlanded the statue of their father while a book of poetry of Sagara Palansooriya was handed over to Minister Weerawansa.