'Certain politicians siding with the West'

Priyanka KURUGALA

"Some politicians never visited such difficult areas such as Malalkadu, to see the the living conditions of the people. Nevertheless they are providing false information to western countries to create problems for the country," Prison Reforms and Rehabilitation Minister Chandrasiri Gajadeera said.

He was addressing the people at Malalkadu, Wadamarachchi recently.

He said that Sri Lanka belongs to all its citizens. The government has the duty to build the country for every individual to live in peace and harmony. Youths who were rehabilitated are aware of the government's dedication and consideration for them, he said.

These youths are being provided vocational training. Among them certain sections are studying for their Advanced Level examination. The government considers this as its duty and responsibility, the Minister said.

"We have no differences based on race, religion and political affiliation. We need to work together to build the country as a single nation. The government is dedicated to rebuild the country," he said. Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development Ministry Additional Secretary Shantha Bandara said that the ministry has drawn up a plan to double the fish production by 2013.

The country's fish harvest is around 300,000 mts per a year. According to the present plan, the ministry expects to increase this number up to around 600,000 mts in 2013, he said.