Customs plays critical role: President

The role of Sri Lanka Customs is critical and important from the point of view of securing the prospect of future in Sri Lanka, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said at a discussion held with the Sri Lanka Customs Trade Union and other senior officials at Temple Trees recently.

Explaining the responsibilities being bestowed, the President pointed out that the main task of preventing smuggling and the inflow of drugs is vested in the hands of the Customs. He said all employees of the institution should safeguard the honour and prestige of the department when executing duties entrusted to them.

Responding to issues pointed out by the Custom officials, Rajapaksa directed the authorities to take immediate steps to redress the issues and facilitate all requirements for the smooth functioning of the Customs Department. Present at the discussion were Senior Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama, Minister of Parliament Arundika Fernando, Treasury Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundara, Presidential Chief of Staff Gamini Senarath and Customs Director General Jagath P. Wijeweera.