Construction Chamber to hold a seminar on Management of Ocean Resources

by Dakshitha Talgodapitiya
Chamber of Construction Industry recognizes the vast potential for exploitation of marine resources and the initiatives launched in this regard including exploitation of offshore oil and gas. CCI has been in the forefront of advocating offshore sand as an alternative to river sand for construction purposes. CCI has also noted opportunities for mining of mineral deposits and unparalleled port development activities envisaged.
Nevertheless CCI’s concern is focused on pollution of the marine environment and disposal of waste in particular.Having taken a broad overview of the marine environment and ocean resources CCI will host a seminar on Management of Sri Lanka’s Ocean Resources with special emphasis on creating a dialogue for a effective institutional and policy framework noting that institutional infrastructure for marine development is weak as well.
This full day seminar which will be held on 19th February 2008 at Galle Face Hotel will bring together some of the most knowledgeable and internationally respected resource personnel to a common forum. Among the presentations is one by Dr. Hiran Jayawardena, Secretary General of IOMAC on Sri Lanka’s Ocean Territory and its potential while Mr. Kumar Chitty, one time Asst. Secretary General and first registrar of the UN International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea will speak on sustainable development of the marine resources of Sri Lanka.
Dr. N.P. Wijayananda, Project Director of DEOCOM and former director of the Geological Surveys and Mines Bureau will make a presentation on offshore mineral resources.Dr. Niel de Silva, Director General of the Petroleum Development Secretariat will enlighten the participants on the exploration of Sri Lanka’s offshore oil and gas resources, potential and opportunities.Mr. Nissanka Perera, Director Coast Conservation Department and Mr. M.A.R. Kularatne, Chairman, Marine Pollution Prevention Authority have accepted the CCI’s invitation to speak on offshore development and ensuring coastal stability and marine pollution prevention respectively.
Prof. Dayantha Wijesekera who has been the vice chancellor of a number of universities and a much respected academic has been invited to speak on Managing Sri Lanka’s offshore resources and the need to develop human resources capacity.
Technical sessions will be chaired by Dr. Ranjith Galappathi, Chairman, Lanka Hydraulic Institute with senior Hydrograhper Mr. H.M.J. Wickramarante introducing the subject.