ICRC scaling down ops

23 November 2010 11:21 am

The ICRC said that the scaling down of its operations in Sri Lanka will commence from November 29 with the closing down of its Mannar office.

The Sri Lankan government last week asked the ICRC to scale down its operations in the country. Head of Delegation ICRC in Sri Lanka, Yves Giovannoni however said in a statement that the decision to close down Mannar office was taken in September.

Mr. Giovannoni also said “I do not foresee the ICRC continuing for a prolonged period of time with a major set up as during the years of conflict. The direct consequences of the conflict are gradually and fortunately disappearing.”

However, he said that the corresponding timelines still have to be determined to this end, depending on the humanitarian needs as well as the possible administrative and logistical delays that it will inevitably entail. This is due to be discussed soon with the relevant authorities in accordance with our dialogue based on mutual consideration, he added. (Daily Mirror online)