- the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention - USA is to provide funds to the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health for a period of five years for implementation of a National Avian / Pandemic Influenza Programme. Sri Lanka is considered to be in high risk category for H5N1 Avian influenza due to its geographical location, existence of a considerable poultry industry and its popularity as a destination for migratory birds. A sum of money equivalent to US $852,050 will be received over the next five years (2014-2018) in yearly installments to conduct the programme. The proposal made by Hon. Maithripala Sirisena, Minister of Health, to proceed with the activities relating to the above programme, was approved by the Cabinet.