The Small and Rural Industries and the Regional
Infrastructure Development Minister S. B. Nawinna handed
over 30 rafts to fishermen in Negombo area which was badly
affected by the tsunami. Funding is a total of Rs. 1 million
for these thirty craft which has been provided by the Rotary
Club in Nikaweratiya, a grant from its UK based Rotary Club.
Minister Nawinna told the Daily News that this donation
would improve the fishermen's livelihood by encouraging them
to get back to their professions.
"There is a need to ensure the survival of the small-scale
fishermen in the aftermath of the tsunami. Although the
tsunami has devastated the costal belt the government has
focused on further developing the fishing industry under its
strategic plans," the Minister said.
