President Sirisena promises to free lands held by the Army in the North

Colombo (News1st) - Development of the Myliddy fisheries harbor commenced today (August 22) under the Uthuru Deewara Navodaya programme. The event was graced by President Maithripala Sirisena. The Rs. 400 million renovation of the Myliddy fisheries harbor commenced under the Uthuru Deewara Navodaya programme. Speaking at the event President Maithripala Sirisena said everyone in the country has bitter memories of the war and everyone's main objective should be to ensure that Sri Lanka won't have to go through a similar situation in the future. The President admitted that the pace of development is slow. The President claimed that he visits the Northern Province at least once every three to four months in a bid to understand the issued faced by the public as well as provide solutions to them. President Sirisena noted that since 2009 the Military has released over 88% of the land that was occupied by them during the civil conflict. He noted that while 12% remains to be released, the Government stands firm in it's policy that the lands must be returned to its original settlers. The head of state noted that through TNA MP Mavai Senadiraja's speech he was able to know that there are a number of schools including the Myliddy Maha vidyalaya currently in the hands of the military. The President noted that he had discussions with the Army commander and promised to free these lands within the next two weeks. The President also reiterated his tough stance on those convicted of drug smuggling and possession. He noted that he recently received the list of those who had been sentenced to death for drug-related offenses and noted that there are 5 Pakistani nationals at the top of this list. President Sirisena noted that he is currently in discussions with the new administration in Pakistan to deport these criminals. A token of appreciation was presented to the President by the fishing community in the area. Later, the president held talks with area residents.