2. Insertion of Preamble to the Protection of the Rights of Elders Act…

The Protection of the Rights of Elders Act, No. 9 of 2000 (hereinafter referred to as the “principal enactment”) is hereby amended by the insertion of the following Preamble immediately after the Long Title to such enactment:—

“WHEREAS the Directive Principles of the State Policy enshrined in the Constitution recognize the duty of the State to assist in the full realization of the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people; to promote the welfare of the people by securing a social order governed by justice; to recognize and assist in the realization of adequate standards of living for the people and to raise the moral and cultural standards of the people and to thereby ensure the full development of the human personality:

AND WHEREAS the state has recognized elders as a group of persons who need to be cared for and protected by the State, by treating them with dignity and respect:

AND WHEREAS Sri Lanka has adopted and ratified the United Nations Resolution No. 46/91 of December 16, 1991, which appreciates the contribution made by elders to society and is mindful that the State must provide the necessary infrastructure to assist elders

Protection of the Rights of Elders who are advancing in years to live a life which is socially, economically, physically and spiritually fulfilling :”.