Intervene immediate and long term solutions for Indian Trawler Invasion issue

Indian Trawler invasion in to SL waters and sufferings of SL fishermen and the continuous grievances of fishermen in the Northern, North/Western and Eastern provinces are common and perpetuate problem in SL now. Efforts are futile and both Indian and Sri Lankan governments use fishermen's issues to maintain their power. On one way the SL politicians say about sovereignty, protect international maritime boundary, not to allow other countries to interference of our state affairs,on the other way, release Indian fishermen and boats held in Sri Lankan custody immediately after India take absentee position on Resolution on Sri Lanka in Geneva, allow Indian trawlers to come and spend at Katchchativu after the resolution adopted with out Indian Government support/ So, it is clear at least concern few people how the politicians treat people's sensitive issues of Life and Livelihoods. Building up of a strong social movement is a burnning issue with strong sense of solidarity among north, south, east, north/west together with all working class people. There was a wider representation from all most all the parts of the country and we discussed the issues related to this in detail and there was a wider consent among participants, we need to do some thing important and which will "Feel" by the authorities. North- South solidarity is vital importance and it was demonstrated at the meeting today.

It was focused the attention that the issue was not only related to Northern province though they are directly hit by this and all most all the country suffer as the coastal communities are depending on the fish stocks in the South Bar and Wedge bar. So, the group decided to work both long term and immediate short term basis. So, the following actions being agreed at the meeting. 1. The joint May day organized by FTZ Solidarity Movement will be one platform to raise the issue immediately. 2. A leaflet distribution, launch signature campaign based on the demands and basic principles emerged at today meeting to address the issues of Indian trawler issue on 30th June at Colombo with 100 people. 3. In the Month of June [Probably towards end of the Month- date yet to be decided] a massive protest campaign to be launched based on Indian trawler issue, Fuel Price issue and also the Land issue. 4. A joint committee appointed to run the campaign which will be planned the program and run long term basis. Your valuable contribution to this process is highly appreciated. Please register the dates. May 1 and May 30.