The Minister revealed of plans to provide motorbikes for journalists at concessionary rates in addition to a housing project next year. What was required, the Minister mentioned was a group of journalists who can carry forward the people and society.

Addressing the gathering the Minister said that journalists now enjoy complete freedom to manipulate their pen. No influence is being made on them and they do not face any threat. The Minister said that they have planned to move forward safeguarding this strategy.

The Media Minister was addressing a ceremony organized at the auditorium of the Government Information Department. It was held for the awarding of the 2015 Asi Disi Mass Media Scholarships. Scholarships were awarded to 145 Media personnel. Scholarships were awarded by Minister Gayantha Karunatilake, Deputy Minister Karunaratne Paranavithana and Media Ministry Secretary Vajira Narampanawa.

These Scholarships will help the journalists to receive financial grants to pursue various courses with the intention of upgrading their profession. Noteworthy is the selection of journalists sans any political or other influences and with full transparency.

Further addressing the gathering, Minister Gayantha Karunatilake made a brief clarification on the qualities that a successful journalist should possess.

In his address, Deputy Minister Karunaratne Paranavithana said that their administration is an open Government. It is not a dictatorial Government. It is an agreement which gives an ear to the people. He added that the Government is dedicated to safeguarding the free media tradition which was consolidated on January 08th.