Trinity principal asked to leave the country

By Malik Gunatilleke

Trinity College Principal Roderick R. Gilbert, a British national, has had his visa cancelled, and the Immigration Chief has asked him to leave the country by May 15. Mr. Gilbert, who has served as the principal of this leading Kandy school for more than four years, was informed that his work permit had been cancelled on the basis of “intelligence reports”.

The principal said the letter from the immigration controller said his visa had been cancelled with immediate effect. Mr. Gilbert said he believed the action was the work of a “few disgruntled people” and the school’s board of governors had decided to take action on behalf of him. Members of the board, however, declined to comment.

The Sunday Times learns that Mr. Gilbert was questioned in regard to tsunami relief work conducted by his wife in Ampara, Karaitivu and other areas.

Mr. Gilbert said he would abide by the country’s laws and was prepared to leave before the stipulated date. Immigration Controller P. B. Abeykoon confirmed that the cancellation of Mr. Gilbert’s visa was based on intelligence reports.