March 13, Colombo (LNW):Minister of Fisheries, Douglas Devananda, expressed optimism regarding the release of lands in the Northern Province currently under the control of Security Forces (SF), Wildlife Department (WLD), and Forest Conservation Department (FCD). Speaking at a function held at the Jaffna District Secretariat, where lands in Jaffna and Kilinochchi districts were handed back to their owners, Minister Devananda stated that the majority of such lands have already been released. He confidently anticipates the release of the remaining lands within the coming months.
During the event, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to gradually returning farmers’ lands acquired by SF, WLD, and FCD. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of the President and the Army Commander of the Northern region in aligning with the goal of releasing these lands. Minister Devananda underscored that the President advocates for the release of lands to their previous state before 1985, with a target to complete the process by next April.
Addressing the Indian poaching issue, Minister Devananda reported the recent arrest of three boats and twenty fishermen on March 10. He urged the SF to intensify operations, emphasizing that diplomatic measures between the two countries are being pursued at the highest levels through the Foreign Minister. The event was attended by senior officials, including the District Secretaries of Jaffna and Kilinochchi Districts, and Senior Advisor to the President, Sagala Ratnayake.
