Hartley and Methodist Girls reopen

[TamilNet, Thursday, 05 September 2002, 21:28 GMT]
The Sri Lanka Army Thursday agreed to allow Hartley College and Vadamarachchi Methodist Girls High School in Point Pedro to reopen starting from Monday September 9. "These schools were shut down to enable the SLA to rebuild and strengthen the sentry and check points which were damaged by students during the agitation Monday. We have now strengthened our positions around these schools," Jaffna district SLA area commander Major General Sarath Fonseka said at a conference held Thursday at the Vadamaradchi Methodist Girls High School.

Major General Sarath Fonseka said that road leading to Hartley College and Vadamarachi Methodist Girls High school is now open only for students to attend classes. The SLA would consider opening the other roads for students later.

The SLA Monday ordered the closure of these schools until further notice following a serious agitation by students and parents demanding withdrawal of all SLA sentry and checkpoints in the areas.

Principals, teachers and parents attended the conference summoned by the SLA.

Brigadier Jayawardene, officer commanding of the 524 Brigade stationed in Point Pedro also attended the discussion.

Jaffna SLA area commander further said that students Monday launched their agitation urged on by some elements, who are determined to disrupt the peace process. He complained that the media also supported these activities. "However, the SLA is prepared to face any threat," said Major General Sarath Fonseka.

Meanwhile, unloading of cargo commenced Thursday in Point Pedro harbour after a two-day stoppage by the SLA since Tuesday, port sources said.

Vessel "MV Induruvali" chartered by private sector was the first vessel that started unloading. However, it has been reported that harbour workers were stopped by the SLA at the 1st cross street junction sentry. Soldiers manning the checkpoint had accused them of involvement in Monday's agitation and had ordered the workers to return home.