The special press briefing by Avant Garde Maritime Services Chairman Nissanka Senadhipathi, which was to be held this morning, was called off on health grounds, the secretary to the Chairman Kamal Gamage said in a release.

The press briefing was organized to explain the position of the company regarding the special meeting on Wednesday at the PResidential Secretariat regarding the controversy on the company.

"Major (Retd) Senadhipathi underwent an abdominal surgery on 21st October 2015 in Singapore and had been advised to an initial post surgery period of 41 days total bed rest and to avoid strenuous activities for three months. However, he was deprived of such rest as he was compelled to attend to certain commitments in business in Sri Lanka. Due to his excessive schedule of work within the last few days which in return made to develop  a sudden pain and slight discharge from the post surgical area this evening and was recommended by his local physician not to move and to follow complete bed rest until further post surgical evaluations to be held in Singapore", the release said.

However, the release said that Avant Garde was keen on holding the press conference.

"When his health condition improves, we will not hesitate to call upon the said press briefing" Gamage said in his release to the media.