Prompt return of Ministerial quarters a legal obligation, not political revenge

Colombo, October 11 (Daily Mirror) - Do not consider handing over Ministerial quarters as political revenge. It is necessary to return the Ministerial quarters promptly after the abolition of a Ministry. Official residences should be handed back without delay. Reminders should be sent to those who have not yet vacated their apartments, and if there is no response, legal action should be enforced, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said.

The Prime Minister made these remarks during a discussion held recently with senior officials of the Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry regarding the future plans and problems faced.

Moreover, she said government officials should be responsible for ensuring the appropriateness of development projects implemented in the country and the benefits these projects bring to the people.

"You should build a constructive dialogue with the relevant parties, using the expert knowledge of government officials in all development projects funded by local and foreign financial allocations.

"As the government, we provide the necessary guidance. Therefore, ensure that regular discussions are held with the relevant parties. Government officials have the responsibility to execute development projects under conditions favourable to the government. Most of these projects are funded through loans and ultimately, the people of this country bear the burden of repayment," she said.

Therefore, before starting these projects, determine whether they are suitable for the country with a public-friendly approach, she advised.