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Thursday, 24 August 2017 00:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
President Maithripala Sirisena says future plans for the health sector will prioritise strengthening disease prevention and accordingly the services of medical health officers and Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) will be strengthened by providing additional facilities.
Speaking at the 82nd Annual General Meeting of the Sri Lanka Public Health Inspectors Union, held at Nelum Pokuna on Tuesday, the President said while the Government made a comprehensive investment to strengthen treatment units by providing the required physical and human resources, the funds allocated for the prevention of diseases were inadequate.
He said it was essential to strengthen the sections which prevent diseases to build a healthy nation which is a main indicator of a country’s development.
The President further said public health inspectors were officers who are in a service admired by the people since they contribute an enormous service in the prevention of diseases. They also play a leading role in disaster situations.
Expressing appreciation over the service of the PHIs who execute their duties even amidst insults and harassment from some people, President Sirisena commended their service during the recent disasters and the garbage issue.
The President also presented awards to a group of retired PHIs. Ministers Patali Champika Ranawaka and Dr. Rajitha Senaratne were also present at the occasion.
