Establishing mechanisms for implementing ground-level solutions
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized the importance of going beyond just strengthening institutional frameworks for effective disaster management. He highlighted the necessity of setting up mechanisms to provide practical solutions at the grassroots level.
Addressing the swearing-in ceremony of Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara today (25), President Dissanayake underscored the significance of empowering local government institutions to prevent disasters in vulnerable areas and come up with innovative solutions.
The President acknowledged that the country’s disaster management laws were carefully crafted and urged officials to ensure their effective implementation. He expressed full support for officials who carry out their responsibilities with integrity and encouraged Government officials to suggest improvements to the legal framework as needed.
President Dissanayake also mentioned that disaster management poses a substantial financial burden on the government, but proper enforcement of laws can significantly reduce these costs.
The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries such as Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retired), Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security Ravi Seneviratne, Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, Army Commander Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, and Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, among others.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake highlighted the importance of more than just strengthening institutional frameworks for effective disaster management. He stressed the need for practical solutions at the grassroots level and empowering local government institutions to prevent disasters and develop innovative solutions. The President emphasized the importance of implementing existing disaster management laws effectively to reduce the financial burden on the government. He assured support for officials who uphold their duties with integrity and encouraged proposing enhancements to the legal framework if needed. The event was attended by key dignitaries, including top military officials.
