I will use executive powers to protect the environment: Maithri

President Maithripala Sirisena said he is not reluctant to use the Executive Powers to the maximum level to protect the environment. The President made these comments delivering the keynote address of a seminar organized by the Law Students’ Environmental Society held yesterday at the Law College, Hulftsdorp, Colombo. The President noted some politicians and officers are not sensitive to the environment when their activities are considered. He said migrant birds have been visiting places like Kumana for millions of years. “These places should be protected,” President Maithripala said adding that politicians who are not sensitive to the environment should be guided on the correct path. The President said massive development projects have been implemented during the last few decades without environment impact assessment tests. He said lawyers have played a pivotal role in protecting the environment and making the environment sensitive to the people.