Maternity clinics being modernised

The Government has decided to develop maternity and child care clinics throughout the country in keeping with the Mahinda Chinthana Vision of giving pride of place to the mother, according to Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa.

Minister Basil Rajapaksa was addressing those who attended the ceremony held in connection with the opening of maternity and child care clinics at Kadigahawatta, Heenatiyana and Ethgala in the Katana Electorate recently.

Dr. Sudarshani Fernandopulle MP presided over the event which was organised under the guidance of the Liya Abhiman Organisation President Attorney Pushpa Rajapaksa.  

Minister Basil Rajapaksa said that modern buildings with all facilities will be constructed for this purpose and existing ones will be improved to meet the requirements with the Economic Development Ministry Funds. The upgraded clinics will have rest rooms, TV facilities and play areas for children, who accompany their mothers. He added that already health facilities in about 8,300 schools in the island have been improved in accordance with UNICEF policies.

Minister Rajapaksa observed that the rural development concept in the Mahinda Chinthana Manifesto is now been implemented in the rural areas. It was the Government’s aim to develop not only the infrastructure in these areas but also their health facilities. An efficient health protection system would ensure a healthy younger generation which would be an asset to the country.

Drawing attention to the success of small and medium scale development projects following the end of the war, Minister Basil Rajapaksa stressed that it was the duty of mothers and all officials to protect the maternity clinics. He has also instructed the respective local councils to ensure these policies are effectively implemented.

Provincial Council Members Ananda Harischandra, Lalith Wanigasekera, Pradeshiya Sabha Member Ravindra Ranatunga and Katana Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Gamini Leelananda were among those present at the ceremony.