DISASTER MANAGEMENT TASK FORCE MEETS AT OCDS

Disaster Management Task Force appointed by HE the President to coordinate speedy response and provide relief to victims of existing adverse weather conditions met in the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff this evening (26 December). The Task Force is headed by the Secretary to HE the President and consists of Secretary to the Ministry of Disaster Management, Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, the Chief of Defence Staff, Tri Services Commanders and the Inspector General of Police. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Jagath Jayasuriya presided the meeting on the request of the Secretary to HE the President and reviewed the current situation of the response to the flood and earth slips and providing relief to victims. Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management commended the Tri Services and Police for taking the lead in assisting the local authorities in managing the effects of the disaster. Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration informed that as per the reports from the Government Agents and the Divisional Secretaries, the relevant authorities have been effectively assisting the victims ably supported by the Armed Forces and Police. The Chief of Defence Staff said that the Armed Forces and Police have already deployed their assets and personnel in support of local authorities. He further said that the Armed Forces are capable and ready to enhance their support in case the situation deteriorates.