Australian MP says a long way to go for Sri Lanka
December 27, 2011 05:36 pm
The head of a recent Australian parliamentary delegation to Sri Lanka says there is a long way to go on the issue of reconciliation as many feel the government is yet to address the issue of accountability.
The five-member group with representatives from the Australian government and the main opposition parties travelled to Sri Lanka at the invitation of the government.
Delegation leader -- Australian Labor Party MP, Maria Vamvakinou says they had good access to members of parliament -- and she says the politicians they met were very aware that their actions are being scrutinised carefully by the international community.
“Both sides have to get to that stage where they are able to talk about recrimination and guilt and blame on both sides. I’m not sure that there actually in that stage yet.” she said in an interview with Radio Australia.
On the issue of accountability Vamvakinou said it probably has not been dealt with yet at this stage.
The trip took in looking at several housing projects funded by the Australian government -- a report by the group is yet to be tabled in parliament.
There is evidence of rebuilding, she said however adding that some of it has slowed down. “…… there are signs of building and work is being done.”
The five-member group with representatives from the Australian government and the main opposition parties travelled to Sri Lanka at the invitation of the government.
Delegation leader -- Australian Labor Party MP, Maria Vamvakinou says they had good access to members of parliament -- and she says the politicians they met were very aware that their actions are being scrutinised carefully by the international community.
“Both sides have to get to that stage where they are able to talk about recrimination and guilt and blame on both sides. I’m not sure that there actually in that stage yet.” she said in an interview with Radio Australia.
On the issue of accountability Vamvakinou said it probably has not been dealt with yet at this stage.
The trip took in looking at several housing projects funded by the Australian government -- a report by the group is yet to be tabled in parliament.
There is evidence of rebuilding, she said however adding that some of it has slowed down. “…… there are signs of building and work is being done.”
