.: October 2015

A dialogue was organized by Savisthri Matale District Women’s Collective with the Government Authorities

A dialogue was organized by Savisthri Matale District Women’s Collective with the Government Authorities on 12th Oct 2015 at Rathtota Pradeshiya Sabha Hall. It was to direct the attention of those responsible Government Authorities towards the effects caused by metal quarries operating in lonewheel Rathtota. Although they have received permission from the local government, however equipments they use are not approved by the Government of Sri Lanka. As a results it has caused immense damage to the natural environment, to human lives and livelihoods. The area has a rich bio-diversity with water resources, it is now identified as an area prone to landslides and many have lost lives in the past. Many women are going for foreign employment due to loss of livelihoods. they also troubled by,
Non-payment of compensation for the loss of lives, various types of Disabilities and health issues such as respiratory problems, affecting children and animals due to sound pollution, damaged access roads and affected children’s education.

This was organized in parallel to “16 DAYS OF GLOBAL ACTION ON RURAL WOMEN" under the campaign title Women Assert Our Rights to Land and Resources. And also to World Food Day.

NO LAND NO LIFE

Matale District Savisthri Women’s Collectives organized a discussion on social issues

Matale District Savisthri Women’s Collectives- Raththota organized a discussion at Maussagolla Rajamahavihara on October 30th 2015 to prepare and organize the villagers who are affected by metal quarries in the area where the illegal machinery is being used. The discussion was on “How to present their issues to the responsible government officers.” There are 600 families living in the area and their lives are at danger due to the damage done by the illegal metal quarries. As a result of the damage done to the natural environment there is a shortage of water in the area now and vulnerable to landslides , not only to the lives to humans but to the animals living in the area, livelihoods of the people ,to their health ( there are quite few are mentally & physically disabled as a result) ,to children’s education, damages done to the houses and the infrastructure.

Matara District Savisthri Women's Collective Organised two- day Training

Matara District Savisthri Women's Collective Organised two- day Training on 22nd & 23 rd September 2015 at Hotel Uranium for Rural Women Leaders.The Training was on "The importance and ways of identifying Women's Issues at the Community and the role that can be played by women's Groups.