Legal action unless ministerial houses not returned: PM

• Says returning ministerial quarters should not be viewed as political revenge  

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama  

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said that legal action would be instituted unless ministerial houses used by the politicians of the previous government are not handed over.  

“Don’t 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 houses. If there is no response, legal action should be enforced,” she said.  

She 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.  
She said government officials should be responsible for ensuring the appropriateness of development projects implemented in the country and their benefits 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 sources.  

‘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.