Dinesh makes clarion call to public servants

• Says launching development projects with people’s participation without waiting for Government funds is the responsibility of public servants

Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena this week said it was the responsibility of the Divisional Secretary to take initial steps to launch projects to be started by allocating funds from the Government, together with the relevant local Government bodies and the community in the relevant area, without waiting for the Government funds. 

The Minister pointed out that launching projects without waiting for the funds will increase its productivity, since the Government would definitely provide funds allocated for such projects. This was stated by the Minister at a meeting with the Regional Development Committee, Maharagama. “Government intervention is being given for the development of the area. Additionally, we need to identify the projects that can be completed with the contribution of the representatives of the local Government bodies and the public organisations as well as the business community in the area. 

“Government officials should intervene to get their contribution for such identified projects. It was the responsibility of Government officials. Some people would like to help us with the development of the area. We are sorry for the officials who forgot about such parts and waiting for the Government’s funds,” the Minister further said.

Further commenting, the Minister said: “The Maharagama is a rich area”. There are many philanthropists in the rich Maharagama area, who are willing to provide resources to the less-resourced areas. 

It is easier to fulfil people’s aspirations by officials engaging with them and working together with political leadership. Maharagama is a centre of altruism and there are many altruistic organisations in Maharagama. It would not be an exaggeration to say that such organisations were introduced to Sri Lanka from Maharagama. 

The Minister said that the present younger generation should come forward to develop this area as in the past, safeguarding the pride of the Buddhist city which has such a proud history. A large number of Maharagama Municipal Councillors and Government officials, including Regional Coordinating Committee Deputy Chairman Upali Kodikara also participated in the meeting.