St. John’s Ambulance activities in Jaffna lag behind for want of funds
[TamilNet, Friday, 04 December 2009, 13:54 GMT]
“The Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Jaffna Peninsula are unable to carry on their projects in assisting the residents of Jaffna peninsula as the financial help from International countries has dwindled,” St. John’s Ambulance (SLA) Chief Commander Dr. Weerasooriya, said in a press meet held Thursday in Jaffna. However, SJA services continue despite government pressure in places including Hambantota, he added.
SJA International Coordinator, Jeans Schwalt and SJA International Chairman, E. V. Rajah Sinnathurai were also present at the press meet. In response to questions raised as to why SJA activities in Jaffna peninsula have slowed down, Dr. Weerasooriya said the lack of assistance given by foreign countries to its projects is the reason for the slow down. However, SJA has successfully established a Training Centre for its volunteers in Jaffna peninsula, he said. It would be possible to extend SJA service to the Regional Hospitals in the peninsula if more funds are available from International donors, he added. Germany is the main contributor but the assistance from International sources has dwindled due to government restrictions, The SJA Chief Commanded said.
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