Ex-planters show gratitude to people who are the backbone of the industry
View(s):With the 150th anniversary of Ceylon Tea being celebrated in grand style with numerous festivities in Colombo, hardly any recognition was given to the personnel on the estates who are the backbone of the industry.
The Association of Ex-Planters decided to duly recognize and show gratitude to those who had contributed immensely towards the industry during these past 150 years.
A ceremony to felicitate staff and workers of Matale District in Panvila who had served on their respective estates for the longest period was planned and with the assistance of the Managers of the respective estates, 44 recipients were selected. The event took place on October 21 and 22 at the Madulkelle Planters’ Club. Most of the beneficiaries were employees of the State Plantation Corporation.
A health camp was also organized for the workers.
President of the Association, Naresh Ratwatte in his welcome speech explained the reasons for conducting such a programme. J.P.U.K. Jayaratne – Divisional Secretary Panwila also spoke.
The first day saw a lecture on the effects of alcohol and tobacco by Doctors and representatives of NATA (National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol). A blood donation campaign was conducted by the medical staff of the Matale District Hospital. A dental examination was conducted by the Doctors of the Kandy General Hospital.
Day Two saw a lecture in Tamil, Sinhala and English by Doctors of the Cancer Society Kandy on early detection and awareness and the preliminary symptoms of cancer. This was arranged by Past President of the Cancer Society Kandy and member of the Ex Planters Association Mohan Samarakoon.Screening was done for breast and uterine cancer by the MOH, Rangala and the Cancer Society, Kandy.
Present at the event were Amila Weerasinghe, Senior Manager Madulkelle Estate and Co coordinator of the project, Thilak Mahanama,Chairman, State Plantation Corporation, Herman Guneratne, former planter, Mr Kamalanathan, representing the MJF Charity Fund, Dyan Seneviratne, ex- planter, Mr. Udamulla, a senior member of the staff of the State Plantation Estates and Sunil Herath, former Director and Manager of State Plantation Estates.
Approximately 450 workers from the neighbouring estates participated in this event which included lunch and refreshments.
The event was co-sponsored by the MJF Charity Fund, Mlesna Tea, Mascots-(Maskeliya- Ex Planters Association), Horana Plantations and Paraguna Consultant &Management Company
Many other well-wishers made generous contributions towards the Association of Ex – Planters in appreciation of the initiative.