'Legislation to protect Sambuddha Sasana'

Although legislation is not necessary for the existence of the Sambuddha Sasana, the government hopes to introduce six pieces of legislation to nurture and protect it, said Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne.

The Prime Minister at the ceremony where Viharadhipathi Ven. Halwature Chandraratane Thera had been elevated to the position of chief Sanganayake Thera of Kalutara Thotamuna by the Amarapura Moolavansika Maha Nikaya.

"If the Mahanayake Theras of the three Nikayas approve the proposed draft legislation, they can be tabled in Parliament within a week," he said.

The Prime Minister was addressing the gathering at a ceremony held at the Negrodharama Viharaya, Kalutara North to mark the handing over of the act of appointment to Viharadhipathi Ven. Halwature Chandraratane Thera who has been elevated to the position of chief Sanganayake Thera of Kalutara Thotamuna by the Amarapura Moolavansika Maha Nikaya.

The Prime Minister added that President Mahinda Rajapaksa following the tradition of Sinhala kings is doing everything within his means for the furtherance of the Sambuddha Sasana.

"Under the temple development programme, the government has been able to develop temples in far outskirts of the country including the North and East."

"The temple played a prominent role in protecting the nation and it is the responsibility of the government to protect temples and other places of worship," he said.

Ports and Highways Deputy Minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena said the temple development programme initiated by Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne under the guidance of President Mahinda Rajapaksa has given new hopes for a better future to the Maha Sangha.