COVID-19 jab: Politicians won’t be the priority – Amaraweera

By Thameenah Razeek

Denying claims that politicians will be prioritised when vaccinating against COVID-19, Minister of Environment Mahinda Amaraweera said those over 75 years and health -care workers who are in constant contact with COVID-19 patients should be given the vaccine first. 

He added that even though discussions are underway on the type of vaccine the authorities are hoping to introduce in the country, they have not discussed a priority list as to who should be vaccinated first. He said that he is of the view of prioritising the elderly and health sector workers. 

“The health authorities will decide as to which vaccine we are going to give the Public after analysing the proposed vaccines. COVID-19 has affected the entire world today. But thanks to our efforts as a Government, we are able to control this pandemic to some extent. All members of the health service and the military should be commended for their efforts,” he noted. 

Minister Amaraweera said everyone should support the efforts being made to uplift the country’s economy. Amaraweera expressed these views while participating in a programme to provide school equipment in Angunakolapelessa.