Representatives of the Voice of the Plantation People Organization met today with the Honorable Deputy Minister of Plantations and Social Infrastructure, Mr. Sundaralingam Pratheepan, and held discussions on several key issues.
The discussion focused on the lack of formal commitment for the 7 parcels of land provided to the Malaiyaha people in the Matara, Galle, and Kalutara districts, who were affected by landslides in 2003 and at various times since 1993. Other topics included the selection process for beneficiaries of new housing schemes, the shortage of teachers for key subjects such as Science, Mathematics, and English in schools, and the need to establish 1AB schools in the Matara, Galle, and Kalutara districts.
The Honorable Deputy Minister stated that he would make efforts to provide immediate solutions to some of the issues raised. He also assured that he would work with the relevant secretaries to appoint teachers for essential subjects such as Mathematics and Science, and would undertake field visits to the relevant districts without delay to address the remaining issues.
Participating in the discussion were Mr. Anthony Jesudasan, Executive Director of the Voice of the Plantation People Organization; Mrs. Lavina Hasanthi, Program Director; Mr. Anton Wanaththaiya, Field Manager; Mrs. Jayameri, Secretary of the Galle District Executive Committee; Matara District Representatives Mrs. Chandramathi and Mr. Jarad Godpri; Galle District Representative Ms. Nirosha; and the Minister’s Secretaries – Dr. Sivaprakasam, Mr. Vasanth, Mr. Ajithkumar, and Mr. Siva.
