Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, Senior Presidential Advisor, Economic Affairs, stressed the need for artistes to draft proposals aimed at enhancing the film industry’s progress and supporting its members.
This directive was issued during a recent discussion at the Presidential Secretariat regarding the modernisation of Sri Lanka’s cinema to align with contemporary standards, and to ensure the sustained professional growth of artistes within the sector.
The discussion, led by Dr. Samaratunga and attended by Presidential Trade Union Director General Saman Ratnapriya and National Film Corporation Chairman Deepal Chandraratne, along with veteran Film Director Sugath Samarakoon, Film Producers Padmasiri Kodikara and Raj Ranasinghe, Actors Arjun Kamalanath, Wasantha Kumaravila, Nadika Gunasekara, and other industry Artistes.
Dr. Samaratunga highlighted the parallel between the challenges faced by the Film industry and broader societal issues. He stressed the necessity of safeguarding the Cinema sector in the country and urged for the submission of comprehensive proposals for incorporation into the general Budget or policy framework.
Drawing attention to the longstanding issue of insufficient Artiste pensions since 1993, Dr. Samaratunga stressed the importance of presenting factual data to prompt governmental action on this matter. Additionally, recognising the significance of Artiste welfare in preserving the Film industry, efforts are underway to establish a specialised Loan scheme.
Dr. Samaratunga solicited relevant proposals to effectively communicate the industry’s needs to the government.
President’s Trade Union Director General Saman Ratnapriya assured the possibility of arranging a Medical Insurance scheme for Artistes through the Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation. Recognising the challenges of aging in maintaining professional engagements, he stressed the necessity of implementing a suitable programme to support Artistes.
He urged prompt submission of proposals for the betterment of the Film industry and Artiste’s welfare. Stressing the potential for swift action, Mr. Ratnapriya indicated that timely proposals could yield results, following discussions with relevant institutions, including the Ministry of Finance. Efforts are underway to inform President Ranil Wickremesinghe of these developments.
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