Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Dr. Greg French, participated in the opening of the first 25 houses in a new housing project for the tsunami-affected in the Hambantota District, states a Australian High Commission Press release.
The Venerable Wattegama Dhammawasa Thera, President of the Tsunami Disaster Fund of the Sri Subodharama Sasana Seva Society and Sanghanayake for Australia, presided over the ceremony, which took place in Siribopura, Hambantota, on April 10. The Government Agent for Hambantota District M.A. Piyasena, also participated.
The Tsunami Disaster Fund project aims to build 100 houses for people from different communities affected by the disaster, in a range of locations.
The initiative is being implemented by the Sri Subodharama Sasana Seva Society, in collaboration with the Sri Lankaramaya Monastery in Brisbane, Australia.
"This project is a strong example of the excellent cooperation between Australians and Sri Lankans in responding to the tsunami crisis" the High Commissioner said.
"The tsunami has resulted in a groundswell of support from Australia. In addition to assistance provided through the Australian Federal and State Governments, Australian citizens have given generously to various public tsunami appeals, ranging from collections through temples to celebrity cricket matches. Many Australians are also working here in Sri Lanka to assist the tsunami response."
Australian public and private commitments to tsunami assistance in Sri Lanka are valued at over A$100 million.
Greek hospital ship leaves after rendering invaluable service
The Greek hospital ship 'Ocean Monarch' which arrived in Trincomalee on February 5 to render medical services to the people of Trincomalee affected by the tsunami left at 11.a.m. on Monday 28th March having been here for nearly two months.
Though the ship anchored at the Ashraff Jetty on February 5 medical services commenced on February 12 after permission was granted by International Ships and Ports Security (ISPA).
The hospital ships medical team consisted of 18 doctors, 25 nurses and 10 para-medical staff. Patients were directed from the General Hospital, Trincomalee.
Child patients who sought treatment at the floating hospital were given toys and sweets between 12th February and 23rd March. Patients had been treated to their satisfaction.
Deputy Chief of Mission, Iraklis Charmanidis of the Hellenic Aid Department of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs wished to have close relationship between Greece and Sri Lanka for a better future.
Patients from distant places like Batticaloa, Jaffna and Matale too have sought treatment from this hospital. Dr. Manolis Anastasagis was in-charge of the medical team.
The 'Ocean Monarch' was a passenger ship which could accommodate 500 passengers. Among other facilities this ship was popular about the casino game. It was converted to a hospital ship two weeks before she was sent to Trincomalee.
Khalid
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