Sitting of Wednesday, 18 December 2024
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 1735286612086554 ·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 and Affirmation of Hon. Mohamed Nizam Kariapper 1 speeches
- 2 Papers Papers: Annual Reports of Government Institutions 4 speeches
- 3 Oral question Oral Questions (Questions 1–10) 93 speeches
- 4 Procedural Procedural Matters and Points of Order 40 speeches
- 5 Adjournment Adjournment Motion 1 speeches
- 6 Debate Debate: Supplementary Estimate – Head 102, Programme 01 (School Supplies Grant) 106 speeches
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera argued that the proposed Rs. 6,000 school supplies allowance should not be limited to children in Aswesuma beneficiary families because the Aswesuma selection process is flawed and discretionary, and proposed instead that it be granted universally to all schoolchildren. He also questioned the lack of detailed disclosure on the President’s visit to India, particularly regarding physical, digital, and energy connectivity proposals, and sought clarification on the proposed multi-product energy pipeline, its financing, conditions, and the role of the UAE. He further stated that the Government appeared to be continuing the previous administration’s policy direction and, in response to a personal matter raised by the Minister of Justice, clarified his professional status as Counsel under Act No. 26 of 2023 while tabling related campaign material.
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary The Minister raised a Point of Order to clarify that he had served as a Government Attorney in the Attorney General’s Department and did not wish to be addressed as “Attorney-at-Law” as a personal title. He said his challenge was limited to another Member’s public claims about qualifications and asked that any claimed qualification be presented to the House.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera referred to Act No. 26 of 2023, stating that Section 4 distinguishes between an Instructing Attorney and Counsel and asserting that he is a Counsel. He also tabled a social media post dated 06.03.2020 in which the Minister had identified himself as an attorney while seeking votes, challenging the Minister’s understanding of the distinction.
Law & Order Full speech → - The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary Harshana Nanayakkara denied that a leaflet incorrectly described him as “Attorney-at-Law,” stating that it referred to him as having worked as a Government Attorney. He challenged the opposing claim as based on a misreading of the Sinhala text and asked for documentary proof, such as a certificate, to substantiate the allegation.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera stated that on 25 January 2024 Mr. Nanayakkara presented himself to voters as an attorney and claimed that his legal qualification was from England rather than Sri Lanka. The point raised concerns the accuracy or representation of Mr. Nanayakkara’s professional credentials in a political context.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera criticized another member’s claimed doctoral qualifications, stating that available records contradict those claims. He called for the matter to be acknowledged in Parliament.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera briefly objected, stating that the situation or ruling under discussion was unfair. No specific proposal, question, or further context was provided in the remark.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera requested an additional two minutes to speak, stating that a Minister had used part of his allotted time.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Dammika Patabendi - Minister of Environment JJB
AI summary The Minister of Environment, Dr. Dammika Patabendi, briefly requested Hon. Ajith P. Perera to allow him to proceed. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or question was raised in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Nalin Bandara Jayamaha referred to a challenge involving Asoka Sapumal Ranwala and the Leader of the Opposition, and extended the issue to Cabinet accountability. He demanded that all Cabinet Ministers table their educational or professional qualifications in Parliament, arguing that such claims should not be accepted without evidence.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe called on Members to follow proper procedure when raising a Point of Order by identifying the relevant Standing Order and specifying the issue. He also admonished Members not to misuse the process or make false statements.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Dammika Patabendi - Minister of Environment JJB
AI summary The Minister supported the Supplementary Estimate presented by the Prime Minister as Minister of Education, stating that it provides Rs. 6,500 million for Rs. 6,000 grants to eligible students for stationery and school supplies in 2025. He argued that the measure offers relief during economic recovery, prioritizes education, and will be implemented through coordination between the Ministry of Digital Economy and the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment. He urged the Opposition to support the proposal and criticized attempts to divert the debate from its subject.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam raised concerns over unresolved pension adjustments for teachers who retired between 2016 and 2019, citing Public Administration Circulars 3/2016 and 35/2019 and urging payment of arrears affecting about 118,000 pensioners. He called for targeted Budget programmes for persons with disabilities and female-headed households in the North and East, and requested intervention to address delays and alleged bribery in vehicle ownership transfers and number plate issuance at the Motor Traffic Department. He also sought urgent funding for elephant fences in the Vanni District amid rising human–elephant conflict, and timely payment of fertilizer support to protect agricultural yields.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Raising a Point of Order, Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna requested that the Leader of the Opposition table the documents he had presented in Parliament the previous day.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Darmapriya Wijesinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Darmapriya Wijesinghe supported the Supplementary Estimate to provide Rs. 6,000 for 2025 school supplies to eligible students, arguing it addresses hardship faced by families and should be viewed as an initial empowerment measure rather than a vote-oriented handout. He criticised previous poverty alleviation and beneficiary identification programmes, including Janasaviya, Samurdhi and Aswesuma, as ineffective in eradicating poverty. He also rejected Opposition concerns raised over International Sovereign Bond restructuring, stating the Government expects the economy to strengthen by 2028.
- The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake NDF
AI summary Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake alleged a major fraud at an institution previously under his purview, stating that a cheque for Rs. 21.8 million had been issued instead of Rs. 464,248, and tabled related documents. He urged the Government to use revenue from proposed vehicle imports and customs duties to fund promised salary and pension adjustments for public servants, teachers, administrators, and pre-2016 retirees, while maintaining exchange-rate stability. He also asked the Government to clarify the status of pending vehicle permits for public officers and raised concerns about arrears in police allowances, unpaid bonuses in some institutions, and unmet public expectations following tax and VAT changes.
- The Hon. (Ms.) Anushka Thilakarathne, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Anushka Thilakarathne used her maiden speech to argue that the new Government inherited a severely weakened education, health, and agriculture sector from the previous administration and should be judged on its performance over the next five years. Referring to the education allocations under discussion, she said concerns about limiting the school stationery allowance to Aswesuma beneficiaries had been addressed by the President, who indicated that consideration would be given to extending support to all children.
- Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called the next speaker, Hon. Chanaka Madugoda, and allocated him seven minutes. Before proceeding, they asked whether any Member would propose Hon. Aravinda Senarath to preside over the sitting.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mahinda Jayasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Mahinda Jayasinghe moved that Hon. Aravinda Senarath take the Chair during the sitting. The motion was seconded, agreed to by the House, and Hon. Aravinda Senarath assumed the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda SLPP
AI summary Welcoming the proposed Rs. 6,000 grant for children from low-income families to buy educational materials, Chanaka Madugoda argued that the debate should also recognize past education-related welfare measures such as school meals, uniforms and the “Suraksha” insurance scheme. He urged the Government to revise the criteria for identifying low-income households so that children are not excluded solely because a parent is a public servant, and to assess actual family circumstances, including the number of school-going children. He further said current education costs, including tuition for Advanced Level students, far exceed Rs. 6,000 and called for higher support in line with the Government’s previous commitments on education funding.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dhanushka Ranganath JJB
AI summary Hon. Dhanushka Ranganath supported the Supplementary Estimate providing Rs. 6,000 for school supplies to children from low-income rural and plantation families, arguing that the economic crisis had seriously affected education, especially in estate communities. He highlighted deficiencies in plantation-sector education, including lack of identity documents, teachers and facilities, and called for further progressive measures if the grant proves insufficient. He also rejected Opposition criticisms about the Government’s economic management and social welfare policy, saying the Opposition should act responsibly and support the schoolchildren’s grant.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Jeevan Thondaman UNP
AI summary Jeevan Thondaman responded to remarks on the plantation community and welcomed the concern expressed. He clarified that although a Cabinet paper was submitted to include plantation people in the Aswasuma welfare scheme, current implementation benefits only children of estate employees, excluding children of estate residents working in the informal sector. He called for those children also to be covered.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Jeevan Thondaman UNP
AI summary Clarified that eligibility should extend to children of estate residents who are not estate employees, including those engaged in informal work. He noted his prior ministerial responsibility for the subject while making this factual clarification.
Education Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. R.M. Ranjith Madduma Bandara SJB
AI summary R.M. Ranjith Madduma Bandara argued that the proposed Rs. 6,000 school supplies grant for only 1 million of 4.1 million children would create visible inequality in classrooms and called for assistance to be provided universally, including to children of public and private sector workers. He criticized the Government for not fulfilling earlier pledges on education funding and VAT removal on educational supplies, and questioned the use of Aswasuma as the basis for selecting beneficiaries. He also asked the President to clarify positions taken during his visit to India, including on ETCA, Adani-related projects, the oil pipeline, land bridge, Kaveri Basin leases, and other India-linked initiatives, in light of past opposition to them.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Sunil Rajapaksha JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Rajapaksha supported the Supplementary Estimate providing Rs. 6,000 for school supplies to children from poor families, arguing it would help school retention amid declining Grade 1 enrolment and significant dropout rates, particularly in Grades 9 and 10. He cited poverty, nutrition problems, resource gaps, and weak exam outcomes as interconnected challenges affecting education, and called for expanded school meal programmes, curriculum modernization, reduced reliance on rote assessment, and improved pay and service conditions for education-sector staff.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah said the Government had not delivered promised reductions in prices, fuel, and electricity tariffs, and urged measures to control essential costs. He called for reconsideration of reduced rooftop solar purchase tariffs, citing PUCSL’s recommendation for an electricity tariff reduction and concerns that lower solar payments would undermine renewable energy targets and affect small investors. He supported school-supplies assistance under Aswasuma but requested that the full Rs. 6,000 per child be provided, or alternatively an interest-free loan for government servants, and urged caution on vehicle imports to protect the exchange rate. He also requested urgent central funding for the Eastern Provincial Council to repair flood-damaged schools and roads, particularly in Batticaloa.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Chandana Sooriyaarachchi JJB
AI summary Chandana Sooriyaarachchi supported the Supplementary Estimate to allocate Rs. 6,500 million for providing Rs. 6,000 per child for schoolbooks and supplies, presenting it as an initial step toward reducing parental burdens and ultimately increasing education spending to 6% of GDP. He criticized past governments’ handling of public service pensions, promotions, recruitment, and labour rights, arguing that the current government would address workers’ concerns without betraying public servants’ trust. He said the government had already engaged School Development Officer unions and intended to prioritize filling teacher shortages by absorbing qualified personnel before addressing unemployed graduates more broadly. He also noted that socio-economic disparities had left about 20% of children without fair access to quality education and said the government was beginning corrective measures despite fiscal constraints.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gamagedara Dissanayake - Deputy Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs JJB
AI summary Proposed that Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara take the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chandana Sooriyaarachchi JJB
AI summary Chandana Sooriyaarachchi formally seconded the motion before the House. The question was then put and agreed to, after which the Chair changed from Aravinda Senarath to Prof. Sena Nanayakkara.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi questioned the use of Aswasuma to identify recipients of the proposed Rs. 6,000 grant, arguing that past political influence had excluded poor families in Hambantota, and called for a fresh survey and for the grant to be extended beyond one million children to all 4.1 million schoolchildren after proper verification. He requested urgent Ministry action on shortages in Hambantota Muslim schools, including the absence of principals, Tamil-medium teachers, administrative staff and security staff. He also urged implementation of the previously agreed conversion of Puwakdandawa Dharmapala National School in Beliatta into a mixed school. He alleged partisan political activity by certain Hambantota principals and teachers during recent elections, tabled an election dispute resolution letter naming nine principals, and demanded disciplinary action within a month.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M.K.M. Aslam JJB
AI summary M.K.M. Aslam supported the proposed Rs. 6,000 grant for schoolchildren, arguing that it responds to hardships faced by families during the economic crisis, including difficulties in buying school supplies, shoes, and paying education-related costs. He rejected claims of biased distribution and said the Government would treat children equally across all regions and communities. He also criticized those responsible for the economic crisis while calling for a humane Opposition and urged Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities to unite as Sri Lankans in support of children’s future.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen welcomed the Rs. 6,000 stationery grant for children from low-income families but urged the new Parliament to focus on substantive governance rather than internal controversies, warning that public expectations are high. He requested disclosure to Parliament of the list of COVID-19 Janazas forcibly cremated and their next of kin, criticized errors in the Aswasuma beneficiary selection process, and called for revised lists using Samurdhi and local officials. He also urged action on delayed Al-Alim examinations, recruitment of religious teachers and trained principals, and the establishment of a Tamil-medium school in Kolonnawa where land donors are available.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Nihal Galappaththi JJB
AI summary Nihal Galappaththi referred to the JVP/NPP’s recent electoral victory as historic and achieved through sacrifice, rejecting claims that it was secured by force. He drew the House’s attention to a previous Hansard entry recording Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi’s allegations of fraud and intimidation in Hambantota, including complaints made to the Election Commission, and placed the matter on record as a concern.
- The Hon. Nihal Galappaththi JJB
AI summary Hon. Nihal Galappaththi rejected opposition allegations about politicisation in schools, extended school hours and tuition policy, arguing that past governments and opposition leaders had themselves interfered in education. He defended the Government’s mandate after the September presidential and November parliamentary elections, stating it would proceed with its programme despite obstruction. He framed the debate as support for a measure to assist schoolchildren amid economic hardship, citing figures that many children cannot buy new stationery or must reuse old supplies.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake proposed, in line with an agreement with the Opposition, that the sitting of the House on 18 December 2024 be extended by one hour.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam argued that ethnic-based political identities arose because the idea of “Sri Lankan” had long been equated with Sinhala Buddhist majoritarianism, and that calls for a common national identity must be accompanied by concrete corrective action. He cited the disputed Tissa Viharaya at Thyiddy in Jaffna, alleging that the military illegally built it on six acres of private land under cover of a high security zone despite local objections and a Divisional Secretary’s report stating it lacked authority and permission. He tabled the 22 May 2023 report and demanded that the Government address the alleged illegal occupation and construction as a test of its commitment to equality and a genuine Sri Lankan identity.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point of order concerning a vihara built in Jaffna, emphasizing that most Tamils in the area are willing to accept all religions and that his own religion teaches equality among religions. His remarks appeared to address religious coexistence in the context of the vihara issue.
- The Hon. Namal Karunaratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Namal Karunaratne moved a procedural motion proposing that Hon. Sanjeewa Ranasingha take the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mayilvaganam Jegathiswaran JJB
AI summary Hon. Mayilvaganam Jegathiswaran supported the Supplementary Estimate providing Rs. 65,000 million for a Rs. 6,000 stationery grant under the Aswesuma welfare programme, saying it would help reduce school dropouts caused by poverty, particularly in the Vanni District. He highlighted dropout figures in Madhu, Thunukkai and Vavuniya North, and called for rapid action to address severe teacher shortages, especially in A/L Science and Mathematics, O/L Mathematics and primary education. He also urged the digitization of education, expansion of technological education for employment opportunities, provision of nutritious school meals, and more responsive treatment of teachers by education officials.
Education Full speech → - The Hon. Jeevan Thondaman UNP
AI summary Hon. Jeevan Thondaman welcomed the President’s visit to India and said the 2024 India-Sri Lanka statement could complement the 2023 Vision Statement, particularly on energy, infrastructure, and connectivity. He argued that delays and inequities in estate housing and welfare delivery stem largely from plantation company control over beneficiary selection, especially disadvantaging non-worker and informal-sector estate families. He urged the Government to ensure Aswesuma education grants include all deserving estate children, reintroduce free breakfast support for remaining child development centres, and use its mandate to fulfil promises on essential goods while working cooperatively to address the economic crisis.
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Saroja Savithri Paulraj - Minister of Women and Child Affairs JJB
AI summary Hon. Saroja Savithri Paulraj said the Government has allocated Rs. 6,500 million to provide a Rs. 6,000 grant from January 2025 for school supplies and books to children from economically distressed families. She linked the measure to rising school dropout rates, poverty, microfinance-related hardship among mothers, and the need to ensure free education includes equitable access to materials, nutrition, and support such as girls’ sanitary needs. Responding to Hon. Jeevan Thondaman, she stated that the grant is intended for all children without ethnic, regional, or occupational discrimination, with the longer-term aim of preventing dropouts and reducing the education burden on parents.
- The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof questioned whether the proposed Rs. 6,000 education grant would be sufficient to reduce school dropouts and urged the Minister to give special attention to students’ broader difficulties. He argued that the Government, despite its large mandate, should meet the public’s expectation for prompt change, noting that previous governments also lost public confidence after failing to deliver. He called on the Government to table details on COVID-19 forced cremations, particularly affecting the Muslim community, saying election promises on this issue should be fulfilled consistently with commitments to end racism.
- The Hon. Mohamed Nizam Kariapper SJB
AI summary Hon. Mohamed Nizam Kariapper used his maiden speech to outline the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress’s position on minority representation, thanking party and opposition leaders and recalling the late M.H.M. Ashraff. He argued that inclusive democracy and proportional representation are essential to prevent ethnic conflict and extremism, and urged the Government to preserve the current electoral system while correcting its deficiencies to ensure local-level representation. He said the SLMC has discussed proposals with the JVP/NPP and Opposition parties and called for Local Government elections to precede Provincial Council and Parliamentary polls. He also noted his intention to raise Eastern Province and Kalmunai issues in future and expressed solidarity with people suffering in Palestine.
- The Hon. Rohana Bandara
AI summary Rohana Bandara welcomed the Supplementary Estimate providing a Rs. 6,000 grant for school-related expenses but argued that limiting eligibility to Aswesuma beneficiaries would exclude many needy children due to administrative errors and omissions, and urged that it be extended to all schoolchildren. He highlighted serious education staffing shortages in the North Central Province, including vacancies for teachers, principals, education administrators and teacher instructors, and called for the appointment of qualified graduates and absorption of Graduate Development Officers into the teacher service. He also warned against political interference in education administration and criticized attacks on opposition figures, urging the Government to focus on delivering promised reforms and justice to the public.
- The Hon. Sunil Handunnetti - Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development JJB
AI summary The Minister said the Supplementary Estimate provides a Rs. 6,000 grant for school supplies to children from low-income families, using Aswesuma as the immediate delivery mechanism to avoid delays before the January school term, while the Education Ministry identifies other eligible children through schools. He emphasized that the programme should not be politicized and said coverage could be expanded, including through voluntary donations from better-off families. He linked the measure to improving revenue performance and outlined plans to reduce exercise book prices by reviving domestic paper production through waste-paper collection, the Government Printing Department, and the National Paper Company. He also said VAT relief on essential school supplies should be pursued as fiscal conditions improve, and criticized past election-period recruitment to state-owned enterprises.
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunatilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunatilleka said that, during his tenure as Minister of Mass Media under the Good Governance Government, he introduced a Cabinet paper to replace discretionary disposal of waste paper at the Government Printer and State Printing Corporation with a transparent tender process. He stated that the system generated significant revenue and enabled the payment of staff bonuses.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Handunnetti JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Handunnetti argued that state procurement and support should be directed to state institutions and local producers to reduce costs for school supplies and revive domestic industries. He cited exercise books, shoes and matches as examples of policies and taxes disadvantaging local manufacturers against imports or unregulated alternatives, and said Treasury savings could be redirected to benefit students and keep children in school. He also urged the Leader of the Opposition to continue his school bus donation programme after the election period, stating that sustained implementation would show it was not merely a political campaign.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman said the government had acknowledged the value of private assistance to schools after previously criticizing such initiatives by the Opposition Leader. He raised concerns over high rice prices despite controlled prices, citing Nadu, Keeri Samba and Red Kekulu being sold above official rates, and said the government had been unable to regulate major rice mill owners even after several discussions. He supported the decision to import rice to ease consumer prices but questioned the implementation of the approved 70,000 metric tons import programme and whether sufficient quantities would arrive within the stated deadline.
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman asked the Minister to wait until he concluded his remarks before responding. No substantive policy issue or proposal was raised in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe clarified that 70,000 metric tons of rice are being imported through a tender procedure. He noted that the import window remains open until the 20th, allowing any party to bring rice into the market between the 4th and the 20th.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Hon. Mujibur Rahuman questioned the Government’s rice import policy and price controls, noting that imported rice costing about Rs. 150 per kilo in India becomes about Rs. 215 after taxes when landed in Sri Lanka. He asked how traders could sell white Kekulu and Nadu rice at the controlled price of Rs. 220 per kilo after accounting for transport and other costs.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe asked the Hon. Member to explain the basis or methodology used to determine the figures being cited.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman clarified that he had stated the average amount was around Rs. 150.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that the price quoted in the previous tender was Rs. 212. The remark appears to reference a procurement or tender-related discussion, highlighting the prior tender price for comparison.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman questioned the fairness of imposing a Rs. 65 per kilogram tax on imported rice while maintaining a controlled maximum retail price of Rs. 220, noting that local millers also do not sell rice at that price. He argued that previous governments had not imposed import taxes above Rs. 10 per kilogram on rice and urged the Government to reduce the tax immediately rather than waiting until April, in order to provide relief to consumers.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe corrected another Member, stating that the tax in question was not newly imposed but had already been in effect since 2023.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman stated that the item under discussion should be removed. No further argument, context, or specific proposal was provided in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that the relevant measure should be phased out in an orderly, systematic manner rather than removed abruptly. He argued that sudden removal could disrupt the supply of rice to the market and harm farmers, and said the approach should protect both farmers and consumers.
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman questioned the fairness of the Rs. 65 per kilogram tax on imported rice, arguing that it burdens consumers at a time when rice is already unaffordable and the country may need about 200,000 metric tons per month until the next harvest. He said the Government should use Parliament’s powers to reduce the tax immediately rather than wait for promised concessions, and should allow private importers to bring in rice under the controlled price. He also argued that Sathosa tenders are unnecessary and would only delay imports, risking shortages and benefiting large rice traders.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that rice imports are being handled through an orderly tender process, with arrivals expected from 19 December and clearance of imported rice having begun from 12 December. He said permits were issued from 4 to 20 December to allow importers sufficient time and space to bring in required stocks, and argued that awarding the tender to Sathosa does not obstruct private sector imports.
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman questioned the need for both private importers and Sathosa to import the same goods when a controlled price applies to all sales. He argued that since Sathosa sells at the same controlled price, allowing direct private-sector imports could avoid duplication and help address the issue more efficiently.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe briefly intervened to ask a fellow Member what issue they wished to raise. No substantive policy position, proposal, or demand was presented in this remark.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman stated that he does not object to Sathosa importing or supplying rice, but raised concern that having two procedures could delay rice reaching the market. His point focused on potential administrative delays affecting rice availability.
Cost of Living Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Hon. Mujibur Rahuman criticised the Government’s rice import policy, arguing that import taxes have prevented consumers from receiving relief while both major mill owners and the Government benefit from high prices. He questioned the fairness of imposing a Rs. 65 per kilogram tax on imported rice amid rising hardship, malnutrition, and insufficient incomes. He urged the Minister to reduce the tax immediately rather than waiting for the next Budget, so that rice prices could be lowered for the public.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody - Minister of Energy JJB
AI summary The Minister supported the supplementary estimate, highlighting the Government’s proposal to allocate Rs. 6.5 billion under Aswesuma to provide Rs. 6,000 each for school stationery and books to children from low-income families, citing survey data on the impact of the economic crisis on schoolchildren. He criticised the Opposition for focusing on personal qualifications instead of social issues and called for cross-party support for measures assisting vulnerable families. On energy, he stated that the Ceylon Electricity Board has proposed no tariff increase for the first six months of 2025 despite an estimated Rs. 39 billion shortfall, using prior additional income and management measures while addressing debts of about Rs. 333 billion. He said the Government’s aim is to provide reliable energy at fair prices for households and industry while avoiding future burdens through taxes or tariffs.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha - Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development JJB
AI summary Minister Anil Jayantha defended the supplementary estimate allocation for allowances to help children purchase school stationery and equipment, noting that members did not oppose the objective but raised concerns about the payment method. He argued that, in the current context, the measure would support school attendance and motivation while recognizing broader social factors affecting education. He framed the allowance as an investment in human resource development and productivity, and said public expenditure on education should be gradually increased as part of the country’s economic development strategy.
- The Hon. Ajith Gihan JJB
AI summary The Hon. Ajith Gihan began addressing the Presiding Member, but no substantive remarks, arguments, proposals, questions, or references to legislation or policy are included in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith Gihan JJB
AI summary Ajith Gihan stated that the Leader of the Opposition had referred to internationally obtained educational certificates in Parliament but had not tabled them. He requested that the certificates be formally tabled so Members could examine their authenticity.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary No substantive speech content is provided beyond the salutation to the Presiding Member, so there are no arguments, proposals, questions, or policy references to summarize.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Requested that a copy of the tabled document be provided and that it be verified with the relevant university. He cautioned that such documents could be altered and noted claims questioning whether the person concerned had studied there.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha JJB
AI summary Prof. Anil Jayantha stated that education is of significant importance to Sri Lanka and referred to the Government’s approach to the sector. The remarks were brief and did not include specific proposals, questions, or legislative references.
Education Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake noted that the Leader of the Opposition had indicated he would table certain certificates the following day, but Parliament would not be sitting then. He suggested the statement should be made formally into the microphone rather than conveyed personally.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sajith Premadasa SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa states that the relevant documents or materials will be submitted to the Hansard Department. He asks members not to be alarmed about the matter.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake rejected attempts by some Opposition members to associate Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna with the Government, stating that Archchuna’s grievance appeared to be about not receiving speaking time. He said Archchuna had emerged at the Leader of the Opposition’s Kilinochchi rally rather than from the Government’s platform, and cautioned Opposition members against making such claims.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point of order alleging that he had been prevented from entering the Leader of the Opposition’s office when seeking speaking time and said he could table a recording related to the matter. He objected to sitting with the Opposition group, describing the situation as unfair, and requested that he be given a separate chair in the middle of the Chamber.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha JJB
AI summary Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha argued that the proposed education allowance is a targeted, fiscally constrained measure to support schoolchildren facing shortages of food, clothing and learning materials, while noting that universal provision for about four million students would cost around Rs. 23 billion. He said eligibility issues under Aswesuma stemmed from technical data-collection problems and bank account gaps, and called for reviewing the 22 selection criteria and correcting unpaid cases. He defended the Government’s policy direction and debt restructuring approach as pragmatic given inherited debt and near-completed agreements, emphasizing stabilization of markets and expected improvement in the foreign debt rating. He also rejected claims that the Government had abandoned its policy commitments or entered disadvantageous agreements during the Indian visit.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- 7 Procedural Procedural: Adjournment 2 speeches
- 8 Adjournment Adjournment Questions 9 speeches