Sitting of Friday, 6 December 2024
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 1734424725051921 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
Order of business
Speeches load per item. Summaries shown here are AI-generated and labelled; verbatim text is on each speech page.
- 1 Opening Parliament Opening 1 speeches
- 2 Papers Papers Presented 12 speeches
- 3 Procedural Procedural Matters: Sitting Hours, Legislative Standing Committee, Committee on Parliamentary Business 20 speeches
- 4 Procedural Vote on Account Debate (Introduction and Motion) 12 speeches
- 5 Debate Debate on Vote on Account for Ministry of Public Administration and Related Matters 117 speeches
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister defended the Vote on Account and said the Government must complete IMF-linked debt restructuring arrangements inherited from the previous administration, including bilateral agreements and sovereign bond settlements, in order to stabilize the economy and implement its programme. He stated that the proposed Rs. 3,000 billion increase in the borrowing limit is connected to completing the sovereign bond restructuring, which he said had already been provided for under the 2024 Budget by the former Finance Minister. He also responded to Opposition questions on issues including corruption, SriLankan Airlines, market shortages, commodity prices, wages and flood relief, arguing that the Government would proceed with its mandate and the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme while engaging with international institutions.
- The Hon. Kabir Hashim SJB
AI summary Kabir Hashim challenged the Minister over an agreement he said had not yet been signed, urging the Government to cancel it if it had the resolve to do so. He also demanded that the agreement be brought before Parliament for approval.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that two days before the Presidential Election, President Ranil Wickremesinghe entered into an agreement subject to prior conditions and understandings. The remark appears to question the circumstances and implications of that agreement in the context of the election period.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Kabir Hashim SJB
AI summary Kabir Hashim denied an assertion made in the debate, stating that the relevant document or agreement had not been signed and that the claim to the contrary was false.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe said the Government would proceed within existing understandings, including with the IMF, while avoiding instability and implementing the NPP’s programme following its mandate. He referred to past debt accumulation and questioned the use of some loan proceeds, stating that forensic audits are being pursued. He said the short-term Vote on Account would be followed by a Budget under the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme, and addressed price pressures on essential goods. On rice, he said large millers with about Rs. 15 billion in state bank loans had been instructed to release stocks, with supplies now going to Sathosa and maximum retail prices notified for Nadu, Kekulu and Samba rice.
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe objected that his allotted speaking time was being affected by interruptions while he was responding to another Member’s question. He sought clarification on whether his 20-minute allocation had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna SJB
AI summary Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna criticised the Government’s handling of rice stocks held by large millers, arguing that public expectations require firm action rather than requests. He urged the authorities to use their powers to locate and release the rice stocks to the market immediately.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe said discussions had been held with both large and small rice millers, noting that small millers lacked stocks while large millers held bank-financed stocks. He stated that supplies had begun to Sathosa, with 100,000 kg delivered the previous day and 50,000 kg that day, to be distributed at around Rs. 220. He said millers had also been instructed to release rice to the open market under maximum retail prices of Rs. 220 for Nadu, Rs. 210 for Kekulu, and Rs. 230 for Samba, with priority given to Sathosa to ensure monitoring of stocks.
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe briefly responded to another Member, asking them not to become agitated and stating that he was in the process of answering their point. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or legislative matter was raised in this intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna SJB
AI summary Harshana Rajakaruna called for stronger enforcement action and urged that no single individual be singled out. He demanded that all relevant names be disclosed and that the law be applied immediately.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe alleged that certain rice millers, including Ratna Rice Mill, had obtained large public-bank loans but were withholding rice from the market, contributing to higher prices. He warned that future bank financing would be reconsidered for those not supplying rice, and said the Government would act against “mafias” in rice, coconuts, and other essential goods to stabilize prices ahead of the festive season. He also described the Vote on Account as an interim measure before a full Budget aimed at workers, producers, industries, and the Government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” programme.
- Mr. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. Harsha de Silva acknowledged the “Orange the World” campaign and cited UN data on violence against women in Sri Lanka, urging sustained action against gender-based violence, particularly by men. He thanked Colombo District voters for electing him and said he would work responsibly beyond partisan politics. He also congratulated President Anura Dissanayake and other former parliamentary colleagues now holding responsibilities in government, wishing them well.
Women & Children Full speech → - Mr. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva said the Vote on Account should be viewed as an interim authorization under the Public Finance Management Act, aligned with the 2024 Budget and IMF programme, rather than as the Government’s full policy agenda for 2025. He noted the Government was seeking Rs. 1,403 billion in primary expenditure, Rs. 4,172 billion for debt service and restructuring, and Rs. 4,000 billion in borrowing authority, implying expected revenue of about Rs. 1,600 billion for the first four months. While reiterating support for continuing with the IMF programme, he said concerns remain about some conditions and social justice, and indicated that the key issue he wished to examine was the borrowing requirement for debt restructuring.
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva questioned the Government’s presentation of the Rs. 3.275 trillion item related to international sovereign bond restructuring, arguing that the stated 27 percent nominal haircut could effectively fall to about 14.96 percent under the GDP-linked mechanism. He said the Government had not defended the EPF in domestic debt restructuring and challenged ministers to table any signed debt agreement, noting that the deadline for agreement was still pending. He criticized prior JVP/NPP claims about “stolen” or “odious” debt, alleged missing borrowed funds, and promises of forensic audits or an alternative debt sustainability analysis, arguing that these claims conflicted with the Government’s current acceptance of repayment obligations and the IMF-linked restructuring process.
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva noted that he had been allocated 20 minutes to speak. No substantive policy argument or proposal was made in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva noted that he had been allotted 20 minutes to speak and indicated that he would require a little additional time.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Gayantha Karunatilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunatilleka requested that another member be granted an additional two minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva questioned whether the Government would implement its stated tax commitments in the 2025 Budget, including zero tax for monthly incomes between Rs. 100,000 and Rs. 200,000, no VAT on food, and positions on digital services, IT services, vehicle import levies, and fuel and electricity pricing formulas. He said the Opposition would give the Government time but sought a specific response on rice, noting public expectations from the new Parliament’s mandate. He highlighted rising rice prices above gazetted controlled prices, shortages in retail outlets, and the Government’s shift from pledging not to import rice to gazetting permission for imports until 20 December, reportedly up to about 300,000 metric tons.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Imports have been opened until 20 December, with discussions held with importers to bring in the maximum feasible quantity. Due to flood damage in the Eastern Province requiring over 70,000 acres to be replanted, only about 50,000 tons may be imported immediately, while a tender for 52,000 tons has been floated. The aim is to secure enough supply to stabilize the market while avoiding harm to farmers.
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. Harsha de Silva argued that the rice shortage and price issue cannot be resolved through Gazettes, enforcement, or imports alone, which he said provide only temporary relief and disadvantage small millers while benefiting larger market players. He cited the 2018-2019 “Shakthi Sahal” cooperative model, involving SME millers and farmers, as having helped stabilise rice prices and increase competition. He requested the Government to relaunch the initiative, or a similar programme under another name, and offered support through a committee to address the issue collaboratively.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe briefly questioned why the “Shakthi Sahal” programme was not continued during the relevant five-year period. The intervention sought clarification from another Member in the context of a discussion on that programme.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva argued that the cooperative movement failed due to politicization, citing alleged political appointments and malpractice under President Gotabaya Rajapaksa that led to audits and halted operations. He urged that cooperatives be kept depoliticized, referencing successful models in New Zealand, the US, and the “Shakthi” cooperative, and said his side was ready to share proposals to stabilize rice prices while ensuring fair farmer incomes.
- Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha - Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development JJB
AI summary Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha addressed debt restructuring and IMF-related negotiations, stating that although final agreements had not been signed before the Presidential Election, Sri Lanka had reached agreements in principle with external creditors on about USD 17.5 billion of sovereign debt. He tabled a Finance Ministry press release and a Singapore Exchange announcement as evidence, and said advisers Lazard and Clifford Chance had guided the Government to proceed in a way that minimizes cost and delay. He also clarified that the Government had not said it would refuse to pay “odious debt” and would act according to its mandate.
Public Finance Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva raised a technical point of order seeking clarification on the meaning of the phrase “in principle,” as used in relation to “agreements in principle.”
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha JJB
AI summary Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha stated that the “in principle” agreement represents the agreed framework for a final decision, though not the signed agreement itself. He argued that prolonged delays of more than two years have imposed costs and said decisions should now be made by weighing costs and benefits in the public interest.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake noted the time constraint that proceedings needed to conclude by 5.30 p.m. and urged speakers to keep to time so remaining Members, including senior Opposition figures, could participate. He specifically asked Hon. Harsha to proceed in order to allow the next speaker to take the floor.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Kabir Hashim SJB
AI summary Kabir Hashim sought clarification from Minister Anil Jayantha on whether his reference to agreeing “in principle” meant accepting the debt repayment modality agreed under President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s Government. He stated that the Minister had confirmed agreement in principle with that arrangement.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha JJB
AI summary Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha stated that the current arrangement was based on terms the previous Government had settled by 19 September, not an agreement signed by the present Government. He said the Government chose to proceed pragmatically rather than restart the process and incur additional national costs, with advisers indicating closure could be reached by December. He noted that about USD 1.7 billion in accrued interest had accumulated and said the objective was to minimize the burden on the public and revive the stalled economy.
- Hon. (Dr.) (Ms.) Kaushalya Ariyarathne JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) (Ms.) Kaushalya Ariyarathne used her maiden speech during the 16 Days of Activism to highlight women’s role in Sri Lanka’s economy, particularly migrant domestic work, plantations and apparel, arguing that these sectors generate major foreign exchange while workers face low wages, abuse, insecurity and inadequate state support. She cited data on domestic violence, rape, gender inequality, poverty, microfinance debt and the long-delayed reform of the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, framing women’s issues as linked to broader economic and social inequalities. She said the Government would pursue reforms including removal of VAT on essential goods in the next Budget, stronger legal protections, criminal law amendments, an expanded fundamental rights chapter in a new Constitution, and policies centred on women’s economic empowerment.
- The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Sajith Premadasa questioned whether the Government’s IMF-related debt agreement was based on its promised Alternative Debt Sustainability Analysis or the previous administration’s framework, arguing that the proposed external debt terms restart repayments too early and impose a heavier long-term burden than alternatives such as Ghana’s restructuring. He requested that Parliament be convened before 12 December to table, debate, and vote on the ISB agreement, proposing that Sri Lanka reject the current terms and seek a better deal. He also called for an extension of the suspension of parate execution beyond 15 December and for a structured support programme for SMEs addressing non-performing loans, blacklisting, and access to working capital.
- Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha - Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development JJB
AI summary Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha said the Government had not drafted the debt restructuring agreement and had its own criticisms of it, but chose to proceed rather than delay and risk further economic damage. He stated that the increase in the debt ceiling was due to the mechanics of exchanging existing International Sovereign Bonds for new instruments up to a notional Rs. 3,000 billion, and did not constitute new net borrowing.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Kabir Hashim SJB
AI summary Kabir Hashim urged the Government to bring the International Sovereign Bond agreement to Parliament before the 12th, as requested by the Leader of the Opposition. He proposed that Parliament debate and vote on the deal, allowing members to decide which clauses to retain or remove, or whether to reconsider the agreement entirely.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva notes that President Ranil Wickremesinghe voluntarily brought the IMF Agreement to Parliament for a vote despite no legal requirement to do so. He urges the current government to likewise present and defend its position on the agreement before Parliament, even if formal parliamentary approval is not legally necessary.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake requested the Deputy Speaker to limit interventions to ensure scheduled speakers have time to speak. He specifically noted that the first-ever visually impaired Member of Parliament was due to deliver his maiden speech that day.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva JJB
AI summary In his maiden speech, Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva highlighted the historic representation of persons with disabilities in Parliament and urged that derogatory language about disability be disallowed in the House. He called for action on high unemployment among persons with disabilities, implementation of the 3 per cent public sector employment reservation and disabled graduate recruitment decisions, and an increase of the disability allowance from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000. He also proposed new domestic legislation aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, stronger institutional participation mechanisms, enforcement of accessibility standards in public infrastructure and transport, and tax concessions for assistive devices.
- The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake NDF
AI summary Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake said the Vote on Account was constitutionally and legally permissible, but questioned why the Government did not instead present and pass an Appropriation Bill. He argued that expenditure heads, particularly for the Presidential Secretariat, appeared to have been copied forward despite the removal of several divisions under the new President, and urged Ministers not to be misled by officials using outdated templates. He called for closer scrutiny and reform of estimates, cited provincial-level financial anomalies such as idle fixed deposits, and said he would later raise questions on Washington travel and IMF discussions.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake NDF
AI summary Chamara Sampath Dasanayake briefly remarked on familial political representation in Parliament, noting that relationships such as fathers and sons or siblings had been common and that husband-and-wife representation also still existed. He offered no policy proposal or legislative argument, ending with a short concluding comment.
Religion & Culture Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- Hon. Chrishantha Abeysena - Minister of Science and Technology JJB
AI summary Hon. Chrishantha Abeysena thanked voters in Gampaha, particularly Wattala and Ja-Ela, and paid tribute to JVP activists, student movements, and those defending free education and social justice. He argued that successive governments had undermined free education and neglected workers, farmers, and medical students, calling for urgent action to address staffing, clinical facilities, and academic standards in new medical faculties in line with Sri Lanka Medical Council requirements. He pledged that the NPP Government would pursue justice for Easter attack victims and work for national reconciliation based on equal rights beyond ethnic or religious divisions. As Minister of Science and Technology, he said Sri Lanka had underinvested in the sector, citing very low research and technology spending compared with other countries, and stressed the need to make science and technology central to economic development.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam ITAK
AI summary Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam said ITAK would support progressive government measures while urging the new NPP government, with its two-thirds majority, to address the alienation felt by minorities through equal treatment and trust-building. He welcomed the absence of obstruction to recent war remembrance events, but called for former burial sites such as the Eechankulam Thuyilum Illam in Vavuniya to be recognized as cemeteries rather than kept as military camps, and for long-term political prisoners to be released. He argued that the NPP’s electoral mandate reflected public expectations for corruption-free and egalitarian governance, and said durable peace depends on goodwill measures that build mutual trust.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary The Minister of Justice and National Integration moved that Hon. (Senior Professor) Sena Nanayakkara take the Chair. The motion was agreed to, after which the Deputy Chairperson of Committees vacated the Chair and Hon. Sena Nanayakkara presided.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Namal Sudarshana - Deputy Minister of Women and Child Affairs JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Namal Sudarshana thanked the people of Kurunegala and said the National People’s Power Government recognized the scale of public expectations following its election victory. He emphasized education as a central policy priority, citing inequalities in the school system and arguing that free education, won through historical struggle, must be protected and strengthened. He proposed making quality early childhood development for ages 3-5 a primary State responsibility, including teacher training, health and nutrition integration, and multicultural and multilingual learning, while also addressing child protection, malnutrition, and educational difficulties. He called for reforms to outdated child-related laws, better coordination between child protection institutions, direct supervision of at-risk children through Divisional Secretariats, and targeted interventions for women, who he said remain marginalized.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda SLPP
AI summary Hon. Chanaka Madugoda thanked voters in the Galle District and acknowledged former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and senior politicians who supported his political career. In the Vote on Account debate, he challenged references to a “76-year curse” by citing events such as the 1971 and 1988-89 insurrections, Black July, the war, the tsunami, Easter attacks, COVID-19, and trade union actions as factors that set the country back. He wished the new government well but urged ministers who previously led protests in sectors such as fisheries, education, health, and agriculture to deliver on their promises, while cautioning against the resurgence of terrorism and the corrupting effects of power.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Shantha Padma Kumara Subasingha JJB
AI summary Shantha Padma Kumara Subasingha used his maiden speech to thank voters in Ratnapura and state that the NPP would use its mandate collectively and responsibly, including on environmental protection. Referring to the Vote on Account, he urged the Minister of Environment to intervene in and suspend a small hydropower project at Bambarbottuwa, alleging misleading documentation, questionable company details, and risks to sensitive waterfalls, endemic fish, drinking water sources, and a declared environmentally sensitive area. He said local residents had opposed the project since 2015 without seeking compensation, and rejected claims that his party had been paid to create conflict.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Hon. Dilith Jayaweera used his maiden speech to congratulate the new government while cautioning that its two-thirds mandate arose mainly from public disillusionment, a weak Opposition, and campaign messaging rather than full endorsement of its manifesto. He argued that the government must present a coherent strategic framework for change and tabled his party’s proposal for an “Entrepreneurial State” aimed at building a “satisfied nation.” He urged reform of the State’s structure, including reducing excessive institutional control under the President, and called on the government not to equate nationalism with racism, advocating a unifying national identity grounded in Sri Lanka’s philosophical heritage.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) A. M. M. M. Rathwaththe JJB
AI summary Hon. A. M. M. M. Rathwaththe condemned derogatory remarks against women MPs and linked them to broader concerns about violence against women, recalling previous protests over cuts to the Women and Child Affairs allocation. She said the NPP’s women MPs entered Parliament on their own mandate, pledged to protect women’s safety and justice, and criticized past policies such as microcredit schemes that she said deepened rural women’s poverty. Representing Digamadulla and Dehiattakandiya, she thanked voters for electing new NPP candidates in a multi-ethnic district and defended the Government’s mandate, rejecting comparisons with the Gotabaya Rajapaksa administration and claims that the President opposed all borrowing.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi, speaking during the Vote on Account debate, alleged electoral malpractice in Hambantota involving polling officials and local assistants, stating that he had lodged written complaints with election authorities and tabled related reports. He defended his family’s record of public service and rejected accusations against all MPs, while criticizing the JVP-led government’s conduct. He also referred to Rohana Wijeweera’s links to Tangalle and requested the Government to repair Wijeweera’s former house, assist Chithrangani Wijeweera, and pay Rs. 5 million compensation to families of people he said were killed by the JVP in Hambantota and elsewhere.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe rose on a Point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi objected to interruptions during his speaking time, stating that there was no Point of Order and requesting that he be allowed to continue without his allotted time being cut.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe accused the previous government of responsibility for mass killings, citing 60,000 deaths, while questioning its call for compensation to affected families. He stated that perpetrators and those who protected them should be punished, and said the current government would take action against them.
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Called for compensation to be paid to all families affected by past violence, including both victims and the Government’s own supporters who died, while also urging punishment of those responsible for killings. On fisheries, he disputed claims that beached boats had returned to work, stating that many multi-day vessels remained unable to operate because of the fuel crisis and engine damage. He proposed Rs. 5 million concessional loans to repair and relaunch such boats and an increase in targeted fuel support from Rs. 25 to Rs. 100 per litre through Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation tokens for multi-day fishing fleets.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi stated that supporting multi-day fishing fleets could increase fish supply and earn foreign exchange through the tuna industry. He also referred to past agricultural development efforts, citing D. S. Senanayake’s settlement and agriculture initiatives and Gamini Dissanayake’s establishment of schemes including Lunugamvehera.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi called for compensation to be paid to farmers whose paddy cultivation failed due to damaged tanks and anicuts, citing around 35,250 hectares affected in Hambantota last season after water was not released from Samanalawewa. He said only a limited number of farmers had received compensation and requested that it be extended to all affected farmers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe moved that Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj take the Chair. The motion was agreed to, after which Hon. (Snr. Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara left the Chair and Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj assumed the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dammika Patabendi - Minister of Environment JJB
AI summary Hon. Dammika Patabendi thanked voters in Kegalle and said the NPP’s mandate reflected both public disillusionment with past governance and expectations for national recovery. He argued that successive post-independence administrations had damaged the economy, livelihoods, and the environment, citing forest loss, the X-Press Pearl disaster, human-elephant conflict, and water pollution. As Minister of Environment, he said the Government’s initial step was to bring fragmented environmental institutions back under the Ministry to strengthen centralized environmental protection and restore balance between people, wildlife, and nature.
Environment Full speech → - Hon. Dammika Patabendige JJB
AI summary Hon. Dammika Patabendige said the National People’s Power Government had already begun implementing its mandate despite Parliament being convened less than a month earlier. He said the Ministry of Environment’s initial step was to consolidate previously fragmented institutions under one system, and cited the Government’s policy programme, “A Prosperous Country, a Beautiful Life,” particularly its environmental commitments. He stated that digitalization and the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme are directly linked to environmental restoration, including protection of seas, water, soil, wildlife and the atmosphere.
- The Hon. R.M. Jayawardhana - Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security JJB
AI summary R.M. Jayawardhana raised a question regarding the financial and operational difficulties at the Pelwatte and Sevanagala sugar companies, both under the Sri Lanka Sugar Company and economically significant to Monaragala District. He noted that Pelwatte has 23,000 metric tons of unsold sugar and over one million litres of stored ethanol, with similar issues at Sevanagala, leading to protests. He asked the Minister whether any decisions had been taken to address the crisis.
- The Hon. Sunil Handunnetti - Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development JJB
AI summary The Minister stated that local brown sugar producers are unable to compete because brown sugar is subject to about 20 per cent in taxes, including 18 per cent VAT, while imported white sugar is VAT-exempt and cheaper in the market. He said he intends to submit a Cabinet paper seeking removal of VAT on brown sugar to help clear existing stocks, support local factories, and address employee-related issues. He also noted that Sri Lanka needs about 130,000 metric tons of sugar annually, of which local producers can supply around 70,000 metric tons, and called for correction of the classification that treats imported white sugar as essential while local brown sugar is deemed non-essential.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara stated that the issue of brown sugar production should be resolved within the Government rather than raised in Parliament, while acknowledging its importance. He said Sri Lanka has sufficient capacity to produce brown sugar and that a previously resolved issue has re-emerged. He urged the relevant Cabinet Minister and Deputy Minister to submit a Cabinet proposal to immediately remove VAT.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Handunnetti JJB
AI summary Sunil Handunnetti briefly remarked that he was observing the reason another Member stood up to raise a point. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or legislative matter was addressed.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara briefly stated that debating the matter in Parliament was not useful, comparing it to an issue concerning the Electricity Board. He did not make a specific proposal or request in the recorded remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Jagath Vithana SJB
AI summary Hon. Jagath Vithana thanked the people of Kalutara for electing him in his maiden speech and said he was elected with support across Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities. He stated that the Opposition would support government measures that reduce public expenditure, including repurposing official residences, but said he would not join a coalition government with the JVP. He urged the Government to respond to Hon. Sajith Premadasa’s proposal to renegotiate IMF-related debt terms, arguing that the country’s bankruptcy and economic recovery should be treated as the common priority.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Vijitha Herath - Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism JJB
AI summary Hon. Vijitha Herath said the National People’s Power Government is operating under a previously presented policy mandate and that the Interim Appropriation is a short-term measure to meet day-to-day expenditure until a full Budget is presented next year. He stated that the Government will proceed with the IMF programme and international sovereign bond restructuring within agreed timelines, while pursuing a longer-term production-based economic strategy. He identified tourism and foreign employment remittances as immediate priorities for foreign exchange earnings, and cautioned the public against fraudulent foreign employment schemes, citing the E-8 visa issue as an example of an unauthorized arrangement lacking proper Cabinet and institutional approval.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara urged the Minister to address the situation of Sri Lankans affected by the “Russia issue,” noting that people from both the North and South had been trapped, injured, and left without compensation. He requested ministerial intervention to resolve the crisis and provide relief.
- The Hon. Vijitha Herath JJB
AI summary Vijitha Herath said the Government is aware that Sri Lankan ex-service personnel have joined military service in Russia and Ukraine, with some injured, and is taking measures to assist and repatriate those affected despite difficulties. He rejected claims that the Government is continuing Ranil Wickremesinghe’s policies, arguing that the current IMF engagement is with Sri Lanka as a state and was initiated before Wickremesinghe’s presidency. He stated that the Government is engaging with international institutions to manage the economic crisis while planning to introduce a production-based programme in the forthcoming Budget.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunatilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunatilleka acknowledged the Government’s large mandate but urged it to act immediately on key cost-of-living promises made before the election, particularly on fuel and electricity. He questioned why the Government retained the pricing formula, import arrangements and high taxes it had previously criticized, noting that fuel prices had not been reduced as promised and that kerosene had increased, affecting low-income groups, estate workers, fishermen and farmers. He also cited past investments in refining, hydropower and the Mahaweli scheme to challenge the Government’s characterization of the previous 76 years as a “curse.”
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunatilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunatilleka requested an additional five minutes of speaking time from the Presiding Member. No substantive policy issue or legislative matter was raised in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Gayantha Karunatilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunatilleka questioned the Government’s failure to deliver promised electricity tariff reductions, citing large CEB profits and around one million disconnected consumers. He argued that, under the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka Act No. 35 of 2002, tariff reductions could be made when profits exceed Rs. 15 billion, and asked why reductions had not been implemented while bonuses were being considered for CEB employees. He also criticised the Government’s handling of rice supply and prices, comparing its promises on ending the “rice mafia” with earlier election pledges on rice.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunatilleka SJB
AI summary Hon. Gayantha Karunatilleka criticized the Government’s handling of rice stocks and prices, citing the President’s statements on known stocks, discussions with mill owners, and possible imports despite earlier pledges not to import rice. He argued that essential foods have become unaffordable and questioned why the Government, with a strong mandate, has not acted on controlled prices. He urged immediate action on rice, fuel prices and electricity tariffs, while noting that longer-term promises such as bank loan relief and VAT reductions may take more time.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva rose on a Point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or question is included in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva corrected the record regarding Sri Lanka’s IMF Agreement, stating that it was not signed by Basil Rajapaksa. He said the agreement was signed by Ranil Wickremesinghe and Central Bank Governor Nandalal Weerasinghe on 6 March 2023.
- The Hon. Vijitha Herath JJB
AI summary Hon. Vijitha Herath clarified that his earlier remarks referred to an initial draft rather than a signed agreement. He stated that Ranil Wickremesinghe, while an Opposition MP, had asked for the draft to be presented, and emphasized that his reference was to that draft and not to any finalized agreement.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ruwanthilaka Jayakody JJB
AI summary Ruwanthilaka Jayakody thanked voters in Gampaha and Minuwangoda and said the National People’s Power mandate reflected a public demand for “system change” after decades of governance he linked to corruption, racism and economic hardship. He argued that the Government had already begun a political-cultural transformation by avoiding post-election violence and gaining support across ethnic and regional lines, including in the North, hill country and Minuwangoda. He said the Government’s “Prosperous Country, Beautiful Life” policy would address cost-of-living pressures, with concrete measures to be presented in the upcoming Budget, and invited the Opposition to support President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s programme.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath welcomed the new Government’s commitments to honest, non-violent and corruption-free governance, but said it must also provide a clear position on a lasting political solution for the Tamil people, including protection of language rights, land rights, and self-determination. He referred to past discrimination, the effects of the war, and the need for support for female-headed families, persons with disabilities, and those who lost livelihoods. Representing Batticaloa, he called for unbiased development, especially in Paduvankarai, and for action on resource and land issues including alleged encroachment in Mayilathamadu–Madhavanai and ilmenite exploitation in Vakarai. He stated that raising these concerns was not anti-Sinhala or anti-national, and said his party was ready to work with the Government if it gives clear assurances on rights, justice, and development.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Hansaka Wijemuni - Deputy Minister of Health and Mass Media JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister thanked voters in Kandy and said the Government’s mandate reflects citizens’ expectations for basic services and accountable governance. Drawing on his medical background, he argued that the health sector must reduce the gap between patients and treatment, improve prevention, address medicine shortages linked to administrative issues and corruption, strengthen food safety, and ensure affordable quality medicines. He announced that from 1 January the use of children under 12 in commercial advertising would be prohibited, and said the Mass Media portfolio would focus on improving facilities and professional training for journalists.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Chathura Galappaththi SJB
AI summary Hon. Chathura Galappaththi thanked his constituents and recalled his family’s political service before focusing on digitalization during the Interim Appropriation debate. He argued that digital systems are essential to reduce corruption, fraud and inefficiency in the public service, referenced ICTA’s establishment and later neglect, and pledged Opposition support for the Government’s digitalization efforts. He also highlighted the Opposition’s Smart Classroom initiative as a means of expanding ICT knowledge and entrepreneurship among students. He rejected references to a “74-year curse,” arguing that Sri Lanka made progress after independence and that responsibility for recent governance should not be attributed to his political camp.
- The Hon. Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi JJB
AI summary Hon. Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi said the new Government had received a mandate for social transformation and argued that the Opposition had not understood either that change or the limited purpose of the Interim Appropriation, which he described as a temporary measure to keep the State functioning until a full Budget can be presented. He said the Government had inherited serious economic and administrative problems, including neglected infrastructure, and would address them through the forthcoming Budget and a shift towards a production economy in line with the President’s policy statement. He also objected to remarks linking compensation to Rohana Wijeweera’s death, saying lives should not be valued in monetary terms, and asserted that the Government would proceed with its programme despite Opposition criticism.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nihal Abeysinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Nihal Abeysinghe used his maiden speech to thank voters, particularly in Kalutara District and Horana, for supporting the National People’s Power and acknowledged those who contributed to its electoral victories. Speaking during the debate on the Interim Appropriation, he criticized experienced MPs for focusing on remarks about the JVP rather than engaging substantively with the appropriation’s contents, shortcomings, or possible improvements to expenditure planning.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Mohamed Sali Naleem
AI summary Mohamed Sali Naleem used his maiden speech to thank family, party leaders, supporters and voters, and congratulated President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the governing party, urging them to fulfil pledges on corruption-free governance. He pledged to share any parliamentary allowances with his constituents, citing his past practice as Eravur Urban Council Chairman of not taking official perks for personal use. He requested Government relief for all families affected by recent floods in Batticaloa, including those who stayed with relatives rather than camps. He also sought action on shortages and land needs at Eravur Base Hospital, release of land for Aligarh National School, and resolution of long-pending land tenure issues for residents of Meerakeani, Meesnagar and Aiyankeni.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip JJB
AI summary The Minister rejected a newspaper report alleging “fake medicines” in 500 government hospitals, stating that no such reports had been received by the Medical Supplies Division or the NMRA and that medicines are supplied only through approved and regulated procedures. He said shortages may occur but are being addressed systematically, and warned that unverified claims could unnecessarily alarm the public. He also outlined government action to recover unpaid excise taxes from several alcohol companies, including licence suspension and legal recovery efforts, and stated that the Vote on Account reflects reduced spending under the current President compared with previous allocations.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. B. Ariyawansha SJB
AI summary Hon. B. Ariyawansha thanked voters in the Ratnapura District and outlined his political background with the UNP and SJB, expressing support for Hon. Sajith Premadasa’s service programmes such as Sakwala, Husma and Janasuwaya. He rejected any blanket accusation that the entire Opposition was responsible for the country’s bankruptcy, attributing the crisis to corruption and waste, and said many responsible persons had been rejected by voters. He highlighted rural infrastructure problems, including poor roads affecting patient transport, and urged the Agriculture Ministry to include support for banana farmers in the forthcoming Budget, specifically proposing fertilizer subsidies in response to falling banana prices.
- The Hon. Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning
AI summary The Deputy Minister said the Vote on Account is an interim measure to maintain essential State functions, including public-sector salaries, hospital supplies, ongoing capital works and debt servicing, until the full Appropriation Bill is presented. He rejected claims that the Government was taking a new Rs. 3,000 billion loan, stating it related to replacing existing instruments under debt restructuring, and cited exchange-rate stability, lower interest rates, higher reserves, reduced inflation, stock market gains, tourism growth and remittances as signs of macroeconomic stabilization. He said the Government would pursue value-added production, research and development, digital economic integration, investor engagement, and a policy of transparency, accountability and zero tolerance for corruption.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- 6 Procedural Corrections to Hansard 1 speeches