PM says he used helicopters not for personal tours

Prime Minister and Buddha Sasana and Religious Affairs Minister D M Jayaratne, yesterday stated that he used the helicopters only to participate at various religious activities in various parts of the country, but not for his personal tours.

He made this observation yesterday, in response to a question raised by UNP MP Akila Viraj Kariyawasam. The Prime Minister further stated that he was invited to a number of religious ceremonies throughout the country on a single day on some occasions and on such occasions, he used an Air Force helicopter. He also stated that he had been advised by his physician not to travel by air, but he had to use the services of helicopters to participate at those ceremonies held at State level. He further stated that he would have to use the helicopters in 2012 as well, to participate in those religious ceremonies.