The Hon. Eranga Gunasekara - Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, on behalf of the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, I provide the following answer.

¶ 02 (a) (i) The National Youth Services Council was established on 11 October 1968.

¶ 03 (ii) Under the National Youth Services Council Act No. 52 of 1968 as amended by Act No. 69 of 1979, there are 14 objectives, as follows: 1. Foster among youth a sense of national feeling, discipline, understanding of social and economic issues, and respect for labour. 2. Ensure participation of youth in national development programmes. 3. Promote friendship and understanding among youth in Sri Lanka and other countries. 4. Encourage competitive spirit and achievement among youth. 5. Broaden the knowledge of youth and provide training in fields related to development. 6. Encourage cultural, literary and artistic activities among youth. 7. Encourage development of physical fitness and sports among youth. 8. Provide recreational activities and facilities for youth. 9. Provide support to youth with disabilities. 10. Strengthen the State’s economic framework by investing funds effectively on a long-term policy basis to create opportunities for progressive employment for youth. 11. Provide opportunities for youth participation in policy formulation and implementation. 12. Establish youth organizations and assist organizations already established for youth welfare. 13. Plan, coordinate, promote and administer youth services outreach. 14. Develop the inherent characteristics of each youth.

¶ 04 (iii) 4 institutions: 1. Ceylon/SL Youth Services (company) 2. Sri Lanka Youth Clubs Federation 3. Youth Services Sports Association 4. NISCO Youth Co-operative Societies Federation

¶ 05 (iv) 61 training centres.

¶ 06 (v) All 61 training centres are currently in operation.

¶ 07 (b) (i) No new constructions were commenced. (ii) Does not arise. (iii) Does not arise.

¶ 08 (c) Does not arise.