A new program to eradicate Dengue: President

Wednesday, 1 February 2017 01:57 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Maithripala Sirisena says he would introduce a new program for the eradication of dengue in addition to the existing dengue prevention programs.

He requested assistance from all citizens in the country to make this program a success.

The President was speaking at a ceremony to open the new building at the National Dental Hospital and to lay the foundation stone for another building for the hospital yesterday (31).

He stated that few hospitals are being constructed to strengthen the free health services. “The Government will provide all required facilities for the health sector to protect the lives of the people”, he said.

The President recalled the lack of specialist doctors and nurses has been a critical issue. He mentioned that there are challenges in the system to appoint new doctors to hospitals. He commended the service rendered by the staff in the health sector.

President Sirisena recalled some persons did not allow him to implement some programs for the progress of the health sector during his tenure as the Health Minister. The President totally rejected rumours alleging that he influences new doctors’ appointments to the hospital.

“I have given the freedom and made an environment for my ministers so that they can provide better service to the people. They can work without any disturbance from unwanted interferences,” he said.

The President unveiled the plaque to open the nine-storied building, constructed at a cost of Rs. 1200 million. He also registered the first patient through the new computer software system.

After observing the units of the hospital, he laid the foundation stone for the second building to be constructed.

Acting Director General of Health Dr. Jayasundara Bandara presented a souvenir to the President at this occasion.

Chief Incumbent of Vijayarama, Wellawatta, Adhikarana Sangha Nayaka of the Amarapura Dhammarakkitha Maha Nikaya Ahangama Ananda Thero, Director Hospital Service Council Rajawelle Subhuthi Thero (M. A. Pandith), Minister Rajitha Senarathne, Deputy Minister Faizal Kasim, Secretary to the Ministry Anura Jayawickrama and the Director of the National Dental Teaching Hospital Doctor Pushpa Gamlath were among those participated at this occasion.