'East lacks building materials'

TULF Leader V. Anandasangaree

SO: Mr. Anandasangaree, what's the latest? We heard that you visited the Eastern province recently?

V.A.: Yes. I wanted a first-hand knowledge about the lifestyle of the people and I made it a point to meet them and the relevant authorities.

SO: What was the people's reaction after the military clearance of the province?

V.A.: They still have a lot of problems to solve. Anyway, they are happy now that they have been liberated. As a nation, we have to get together and assist them to solve their problems like transport, agriculture, food and housing etc. For example, finding building materials for a work is a difficult process. Then, the transportation. It is like a chain. That's why I told you that there a lot to attend to. Someone should look into the needs of the people.

SO: You mean to say there is a Government delay?

V.A.: No. I am not blaming the Government which is doing its best. There are some who do not like to see what is being done by the Government and they seem to have different views. Anyway, that is another story. The Army is doing a fine job and their sense of dedication should be appreciated.

SO: Are you satisfied with the present development activities taking place there?

V.A.: It is too early to answer that question. We have to make arrangements for availability of cement, sand, metal, tar and other requirements to fulfil basic needs.

SO: What have you got to say about the resettlement process?

V.A.: That is the major problem. I believe in that the Government must do its best to close for the IDP. Otherwise, in the long run, it would affect their whole lifestyle.

SO: Will the APRC bring in expected results?

V.A.: It must be a platform to discuss issues independently. If threats are going on, we will be unable to believe in or expect better prospects from the APRC.

SO: Is it the right time to hold an election?

V.A.: Not now. A lot of things had to be attended to. After it was assured that the people are free enough to talk, walk and engage in their day-to-day activities that is the time. You see my home is in Kilinochchi. I can't go there. Threats still come from the so-called liberators.

SO: But, don't you think that an election would allow people to express their need to live in peace and harmony?

V.A.: Do you think that over 20 who represents the North and East in the Parliament were elected by the people because they want them to be in the Parliament?. No. But what happened was a long story. I personally do not like to see that the same thing happens. Merely being a politician would not help to solve the problems. There should be a genuine need to solve problems. Anyway, I have got to say that the time has come for us to think and work as Sri Lankans.

'Rehabilitation at tremendous pace'

Negenahira Navodaya Senior Advisor and former IGP Chandra Fernando.

SO: Mr. Fernando, what is the latest in the Eastern province?

Fernando: Lots of things are happening. We are going on smoothly with the plans, keeping to deadlines and time frames to reach our targets.

SO: What about the re-settlement process in the province?

CF: Well. I am happy to say that we have replaced over 85 per cent of displaced people, who had to flee from their homes after 2005.

SO: What are the stumbling blocks you may have come across in the process?

CF: We are engaged in a humanitarian plus scientific way to resettle the displaced. We were always trying to settle them close to where they were earlier. Otherwise it will affect their day-to-day lifestyle. The whole process is a challenge. Anyway, the only disturbing factor is the mines buried in the area. There are 21 Government Agents' divisions to be defined. The balance 15% is delayed because of that reason.

SO: What about the demining process then?

CF: The Government as well as several other volunteer organisations are engaged in the demining process. Anyway, to settle the people in those areas we have to receive the Law-risk certificate from the UNDP. That is an international standard requirement.

SO: Will you explain a little bit of the humanitarian and scientific way you had mentioned?

CF: We financially support them to repair their damaged homes. An allowance of Rs. 8,000 is given to each and every family till they are completely settled. Wells were cleaned and water tanks have been provided. Tools were provided to attend to their day-to-day activities. On the other hand, schools were reopened and the repairing process has been accelerated. Maternity homes and rural hospitals are now open. Electricity has been restored. Facilities have been made for the ones who were engaged in small businesses like poultry etc. The repairing of by-roads and main roads are going on. That is why I say the process is humanitarian and scientific. No loopholes and everything is included.

SO: How can you assess on the government's support on development activities?

CF: Yes. Every step which I told you earlier comes under short term assistance. We have also launched a number of projects on mid term development such as fisheries, livestock and agriculture fields. Fisheries time schedule has been released and small boats have been distributed free of charge. A food container with a cool room has been set up in Vakarai. A mini hatchery has been set up. Tanks were being renovated.

SO: What about the maintenance of law and order in the area?

CF: Why? We have set up new police stations and police posts. Nilaweli has a new police station now and we have set up new 69 police posts. We have also recruited people from their respective areas to make the processes with the native tongue. Reception is very good.

SO: Anything else special you have to say?

CF: Well, we handle the process on three principles which help to transact and deal with the suffering. Those who are consistent and balanced, sense and sincerity and independence and accountability. You can go through the logic behind this.

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