A series of health camps initiated by the Fishermen Livelihood Support Society (FLSS) of the Port City Development project, were held during the past few months to aid fisher families in different parts of the island.
The two health camps were held on the 17th and 27th of February for the fisher families living in Kudapaduwa Wallaveediya and the Northern and Southern parts of Pitipana. One health camp which was held at the Negombo multi-day trawler owner’s society building saw 135 people receive medical treatment and the health camp held at the ‘Akash’ reception hall facilitated medical treatment for 160 people. Dr. Chamari Tissera and Dr. Sunimal de Silva of the Negombo Hospital were present to give medical attention.
The fourth of these health camps was held in June at the church premises in Aluthkuruwa Basiyawatta where hundred and ninety three people inclusive of fishermen, women and children attended. Doctors from the Negombo Hospital as well as the HelpAge organization offered their services at this camp. The fifth health camp was held on the 29thof June at St. Mary’s church in Uswetekeiyawa, Wattala and 200 people received medical treatment.
The sixth health camp, the most recent was held on the 11th of July at St. Mark’s church in Dandugama, Ja-Ela and saw hundred and ninety eight people receive medical attention. Dr. Sujitha Pulukkuttiarachchi from the Wattala Public Health Inspector’s office as well as members of the HelpAge organization offered their services at this camp.
Medical problems such as diabetes, cholesterol and high blood pressure were diagnosed and all medication prescribed to the patients were given to them free of charge. Eye check-ups were also done at the camp and eye glasses provided to those in need.
The health camp held under the direction of Administrative Manager of the Fishermen Livelihood Support Society Ranjan Fonseka also saw the attendance of Former Secretary of the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Ministry G. Piyasena, Gampaha District Assistant Director for Fisheries H.M.W Ranjith Bandara, FLSS Operations Manager H.S.G Fernando, regional fisheries inspectors and Head of Public Relations for Port City Colombo Kassapa Senarath.
The Fishermen Livelihood Support Society will continue health camps for fishermen in Negombo and the surrounding areas.
