Former Navy Commander Admiral Sirmevan Ranasinghe was appointed the Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Southern Development. 

Ranasinghe replaces Dr. Parakrama Dissanayake who resigned from the position with effect from March 14 to take up a new assignment in the private sector. 

The newly-appointed Secretary met Minister of Ports, Shipping and Southern Development at Temple Trees last morning. 

Ranasinghe was appointed the Commander of Sri Lanka Navy by President Maithripala Sirisena in July, 2015. 

Other commands he has held include the Western Naval Command (2013-2014), Southern Naval Command (2012) and Deputy to the Southern Naval Command (2008). Staff commands he has held include those as Commandant of the Naval and Maritime Academy, Director Naval Operations, Director Naval Weapons, Director Marine Special Forces and Director Naval Projects and Plans