The Tamils want over 50% of the island yet are only 18% of the population....no end to the conflict IMHO anytime soon. Up until 1996 or so, UL expats were treated rather well, better than the locals in many cases, and if one stayed for over five years, a sizeable length of service payment at contract termination. The financial problems started with the airline once Airbus equipment was purchased...way too expensive...should have kept the TriStars and 737's.