Sitting of Saturday, 22 February 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 1741001658041256 ·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 Opening: Parliament Convenes and Papers Tabled 3 speeches
- 2 Petitions Petitions 5 speeches
- 3 Oral question Oral Questions: STaRR Project (Q.1/2025), KL-2 Project Kalutara (Q.2/2025), Lands - Elpitiya DS (Q.3/2025), Meegahakiula Bus Station (Q.4/2025) 22 speeches
- 4 Procedural Ministerial Statements: Elephant Deaths from Train Collisions and Power Outage 20 speeches
- 5 Procedural Ministerial Statement: Foreign Reserves and Debt Servicing, with Points of Order and Procedural Matters 16 speeches
- 6 Debate Appropriation Bill 2025 - Second Reading Debate (Fifth Allotted Day) 137 speeches
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera criticised alleged custodial deaths and warned that action against underworld crime must follow due process, recalling President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s earlier opposition to extra-judicial killings. He argued that the Government’s first Budget fails to provide for the promised new Constitution and abolition of the Executive Presidency, despite its parliamentary majority and electoral mandate. He urged the Government to establish a constitution-making process with expert input, funding, and a timeline for a two-thirds majority and referendum within the first two years.
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe raised a point of order to correct the record regarding a salary document he tabled in a previous speech. He clarified that it was not from Parliament’s Research Division as he had stated, but from the Opposition Research Unit, and noted that it covered salary figures for 2026 and 2027. He said he had given the document to Deputy Minister Mahinda Jayasinghe for review and response.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Vijitha Herath - Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism JJB
AI summary The Minister said the Government was pursuing a production-led economic recovery while using the IMF programme as a temporary stabilization measure, noting expected progress on the third review, a possible US$ 335 million tranche, reserves of US$ 6.1 billion, and fiscal targets including a primary surplus of about 2 per cent of GDP. He said measures were being taken to reduce production costs, attract foreign investment through stronger diplomatic ties and investment protection agreements, and investigate corruption and economic mismanagement lawfully. He outlined tourism and foreign employment as short-term foreign exchange priorities, citing increased tourist arrivals and proposing a National Tourism Commission, regional tourism development committees, improved facilities, and insurance and pension schemes for tourism workers.
- Mr. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Vijitha Herath JJB
AI summary Hon. Vijitha Herath characterized the Budget as a pro-people measure aligned with national reconciliation and based on the public mandate. He argued that the Government is undertaking a long-term programme with public support and stated that criticism would not deter its implementation.
Public Finance Full speech → - Mr. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam argued that the 2025 Budget shows no significant policy shift and questioned whether the Government can finance and implement its stated capital projects, noting past underutilization of capital expenditure and a projected Rs. 2.2 trillion deficit. He said allocations for the Northern and Eastern Provinces, including roads, bridges, the Vattuvagal bridge and the Jaffna Library, are inadequate or risk remaining only on paper, despite electoral support from those areas. He also raised unresolved issues concerning the disappeared, political prisoners, mass graves, and the need for a new Constitution and power-sharing political settlement, stating that development alone cannot address Tamil political concerns.
- Mr. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam urged the Government, in the presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, not to delay the adoption of a new Constitution, arguing that economic recovery depends on it. He stated that his side is willing to help establish a special fund for the North and East with partner countries, but warned against postponing constitutional reform and seeking another election instead.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister clarified that projects funded through Indian assistance, whether grants or loans, are recorded within Sri Lanka’s State finances and implemented through State systems. He stated that it is inaccurate to suggest such projects fall outside the Government’s fiscal framework.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Jeevan Thondaman UNP
AI summary Jeevan Thondaman clarified that 67 per cent of the State Ministry of Estate Housing and Community Infrastructure’s allocation was funded by India, including a Rs. 3,000 million grant and Rs. 3,500 million under the Indian Housing Project, though channelled through the Sri Lankan Government. He argued that since estate workers contribute 12 per cent of income to the Government, the allocation returned to them through Government funds should be higher.
- The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper raised a Point of Order under Standing Order 92(2) regarding Finance Ministry Circular MF/2/2025, which requires District Coordinating Committees to approve decentralized development funds by 25 February 2025. He requested that the Ministry postpone the deadline by two days, noting that the current date coincides with the Second Reading vote and would prevent Members from participating in the Committee Stage.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Mr. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Aruna Panagoda JJB
AI summary Aruna Panagoda supported the Budget’s Rs. 483 billion allocation for transport, arguing that public transport must be made reliable, safe, efficient, environmentally friendly and sustainable after years of politicization and deterioration. He called for modernizing SLTB services, introducing structured bus services on the main corridors into Colombo, strengthening rural and late-evening bus operations, and improving the conduct and public-service culture of transport staff under the Clean Sri Lanka programme. He also raised unresolved compensation issues from land acquisitions for the Ruwanpura Expressway in the Homagama area, stating that Budget funds should be used in stages to address payments and related administrative gaps.
- Mr. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) A.M.M.M. Rathwaththe JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) A.M.M.M. Rathwaththe supported the 2025 Budget as a “people’s Budget” focused on a production economy and social upliftment. She highlighted allocations for children in care institutions, including monthly support, proposed legal changes to allow them to remain in care until economically integrated, and marriage support after leaving care. She also cited Indian-supported projects for Ampara and the Eastern Province, increased education funding, higher allowances for chronic kidney disease patients, livelihood support for Aswesuma beneficiaries, and land-permit issues being addressed through Mahaweli Revival Week.
- Mr. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi argued during the Budget debate that recent shootings and murders, including incidents in court, Middaniya, Uswetakeiyawa, Negombo and Kotahena, raise serious questions about national security under the new JVP-led Government. He linked the Middaniya killings to unresolved violence during the Aragalaya, stating that failure to arrest suspects earlier due to fear of witnesses had contributed to later tragedies. He called for a thorough investigation into the killing of Aruna Widanagamage, alias “Kajja”, including allegations about his political links, weapons possession and possible motives behind his death.
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi urged the Minister to determine and disclose the true origin and masterminds behind a recent killing, noting that only suspects had been arrested and that several possible motives were being discussed. He said political underworld networks in Hambantota had operated for decades and that their weapons remained unseized despite pledges to recover illegal firearms. He also complained that MPs’ security had been withdrawn and licensed firearms obtained for protection had been surrendered, requesting their return and warning that the Speaker, Secretary of Defence and Government would bear responsibility if harm came to him after his request for security was not acted upon.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. T.K. Jayasundara JJB
AI summary Hon. T.K. Jayasundara defended the Government’s recent political change as a move away from corruption, chauvinism and patronage, arguing that it has restored international confidence and created a fairer environment for investment and entrepreneurship. He said the Government’s economic programme should combine humanist social renewal with sustainable and equitable development, including “economic democracy” and wider public participation. He highlighted targets to raise export earnings from USD 12.7 billion in 2024 to USD 19 billion in 2025 and expand tourism from 3 million to 8 million visitors, proposing responsible tourism development in inland areas of Galle District to support rural incomes and industries such as tea, cinnamon and kitul. He also referred to Budget support for small tea-holders, noting an increased allocation from Rs. 1,158 million in 2023 to Rs. 1,355 million.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Chaminda Lalith Kumara JJB
AI summary Hon. Chaminda Lalith Kumara supported the 2025 Budget, stating that the Government’s mandate enabled it to redirect savings from reduced political privileges toward public benefits, including salary increases, support for workers, domestic industry, and production. He emphasized agriculture and food security, citing fertilizer support, irrigation allocations, and the goal of meeting a significant share of nutritional needs domestically. He urged officials to implement allocations efficiently within the remaining months of the year and called on the Opposition to contribute constructively to rebuilding sectors such as transport, health, and education.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. K. Sujith Sanjaya Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. K. Sujith Sanjaya Perera argued that the Government’s inaugural Budget fails to provide the immediate relief promised during the election campaign, particularly on VAT for essentials, fuel, electricity, school stationery, and public sector salaries. He questioned the credibility of financing a large deficit and warned that unmet revenue plans could lead to further taxation. Focusing on plantation areas, he doubted the proposed estate wage increase, said the estate housing allocation was inadequate, and proposed allocating land to estate families. He also urged targeted support for small tea-holders, including fertilizer assistance similar to that given to paddy farmers, citing their role in tea exports and foreign exchange earnings.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning
AI summary The Deputy Minister clarified that the Budget allocates Rs. 4,267 million for estate housing and infrastructure development, in response to concerns that the provision was insufficient. He stated that the allocation covers ongoing projects, completion of partially built houses from previous years, and new projects, with an expectation of completing 1,300 houses during the year.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna rose on a point of Order. No substantive issue, proposal, or argument was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna queried whether a point of order had been raised that justified the Deputy Minister making a statement. The intervention sought procedural clarification from the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna briefly stated that the matter referred to was not included in the Standing Orders, addressing the Chair on a procedural point.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. K. Sujith Sanjaya Perera SJB
AI summary K. Sujith Sanjaya Perera rose to raise a point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or question is recorded in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. K. Sujith Sanjaya Perera SJB
AI summary K. Sujith Sanjaya Perera reiterated that the Rs. 4,000 million allocation must cover both unfinished housing projects and new construction. He argued that, under those constraints, only about 1,500 to 2,000 houses could realistically be built, and said further debate would not change that position.
Land & Housing Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning
AI summary The Deputy Minister clarified that the Government expects to complete work on 182,370 houses during the year across urban housing, resettlement for conflict-affected families, ongoing housing in the Southern Province, and the estate sector. He added that 10,000 houses are planned in the estate sector, with 1,300 to be completed quickly.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar supported the National People’s Power Government’s Budget, presenting it as a mandate for national recovery after the economic and political crisis and the 2022 bankruptcy declaration. He said the Government had received significant support across communities and regions, including in the North and East, and emphasized his responsibility as Fisheries Minister and Jaffna District Coordinating Committee Chairman to improve conditions for fisherfolk. He highlighted poverty reduction as a central objective, noting high poverty levels in the Northern Province, especially Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi, and said Budget allocations would prioritize village-level infrastructure such as schools, roads, tanks, and related development.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Riyas Farook JJB
AI summary Riyas Farook defended the Government’s first Budget as an effort to correct administrative and political failures in education and other sectors, particularly in school admissions, transfers, and infrastructure. He cited problems arising from the “1,000 National Schools” and “Nearest School — Best School” programmes in Akurana and Poojapitiya, including unresolved feeder-school allocations, declining enrolment, underfunded development projects, and alleged political interference in principal transfers. He requested action to rebuild facilities at Al Ashaar National School and said the Government was reviewing admissions practices that disadvantage poorer families, with the aim of presenting a more reliable education system by the following year.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri criticized the 2025 Budget, arguing that the NPP Government has abandoned its earlier socialist and anti-capitalist positions and is continuing economic policies similar to previous Ranil Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa administrations, including further borrowing to finance the deficit. He questioned the Government’s plans on rice procurement and price relief ahead of the April New Year, saying the Paddy Marketing Board had not secured adequate stocks. He also challenged the presentation of public-sector salary increases, claiming the cost-of-living allowance was being reclassified as basic salary and that promised increases spread to 2027 may not materialize.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Bhagya Sri Herath, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Bhagya Sri Herath argued that the Budget must be understood in the context of past governments’ policies and economic management, and that current economic planning cannot ignore recent history. He criticized Opposition Members for procedural conduct in Parliament, particularly the misuse of Points of Order for publicity, and rejected prior Opposition claims that an NPP government would cause economic collapse, religious extremism, or instability.
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri addressed the Deputy Chairperson of Committees, but no substantive remarks, arguments, proposals, or questions are included in the provided speech text.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Bhagya Sri Herath, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Bhagya Sri Herath objected to an interruption, stating that he had not named or quoted any Member and that Standing Orders did not justify the intervention. He requested that any time lost be restored and argued that the Opposition should “restart” its politics, referring to fear-based claims made during the election campaign about what would happen if his side came to power.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri raised a matter under Standing Order 86(a), but the provided excerpt contains no substantive remarks, question, proposal, or policy issue to summarize.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Bhagya Sri Herath, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Bhagya Sri Herath referred to public fears during the election period, stating that some people did not vote for the Government because they believed alms-giving or charitable religious practices would be stopped if it came to power. The remark appeared to address misconceptions about the Government’s intentions.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Bhagya Sri Herath, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Bhagya Sri Herath said that long-standing allegations against his party regarding extremism, economic mismanagement, and religious fanaticism were disproved soon after it assumed power. He argued that voters had been influenced by scare narratives about economic collapse and calamity, but that these narratives were defeated within 24 hours of the new government taking office.
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri informed the Deputy Chairperson of Committees that he would speak briefly for one minute.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri sought clarification on the Budget proposal regarding salary increases for public servants. He asked that the relevant member state whether his earlier remarks on the public sector salary increase were correct, rather than making personal or unrelated comments.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Bhagya Sri Herath, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Bhagya Sri Herath argued that Opposition Members should account for earlier claims about extremism, economic collapse and social unrest before criticizing the Government’s Budget. He said the Government’s economic programme is based on social and economic transformation through collective effort and sacrifice, not individual patronage or employment promises. He rejected claims that isolated violent incidents amount to national security threats, while acknowledging recent murders as serious crimes that require broader social and economic rebuilding.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody - Minister of Energy JJB
AI summary Minister Kumara Jayakody argued that the 2025 Budget is aimed at broad-based economic growth through modernization of education, health, land use, finance, transport, energy, and import-export systems. He said salary increases and revised tax thresholds are intended to retain professionals and reverse brain drain, citing resignations of engineers from institutions under his Ministry. He highlighted allocations for public transport, rail modernization, domestic production through a motor vehicle and rubber-based industrial zone, and major energy projects including grid upgrades, waste-to-energy, solar installations, island renewable systems, and preparatory work for future nuclear power.
- The Hon. Jagath Vithana SJB
AI summary Hon. Jagath Vithana challenged the government’s claim that it inherited a bankrupt economy by citing the 2025 Budget, Economic and Financial Situation report, which records economic growth of 5.5 per cent in the third quarter of 2024. He also sought clarification on Annexure IV of the 2025 Budget Speech, which states that VAT arrears of construction contractors involved in tsunami projects will be written off. He requested details of the companies, beneficiaries, and amounts involved, noting concerns about the decision and its connection to projects from a period when the current President was a Cabinet Minister.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister
AI summary The Deputy Minister clarified that the decision concerns tax arrears arising from inputs used in post-tsunami reconstruction projects funded by foreign aid. He stated that the measure is intended to settle long-standing disputed arrears and is not relief directed at any particular businessperson or entity.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Jagath Vithana SJB
AI summary Asked the Deputy Minister to clarify whether the matter being referred to involved institutions or individuals, and requested that Parliament be informed accordingly.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister
AI summary Details will be provided in due course.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Jagath Vithana SJB
AI summary Jagath Vithana asked for the total value of the relief being discussed. The intervention sought a specific figure or quantified estimate in relation to the relevant relief measure.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister
AI summary The Deputy Minister stated that the measure was not intended to provide targeted relief to any individual or company. He said it addressed long-disputed tax issues connected to tsunami reconstruction aid.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Jagath Vithana SJB
AI summary Hon. Jagath Vithana criticized the Budget for lacking the VAT relief and fertilizer-cost reductions promised by the Government, arguing that rising prices and the absence of clear revenue measures leave the country’s direction unclear. He called for expedited justice mechanisms, including a special court and mandatory death penalty where murder is proven, citing delays in cases involving underworld violence and contract killings. He urged faster digitization linking Divisional Secretariats and banks to target welfare to genuinely needy recipients, while also raising concerns about practical facilities, insurance, and vehicle access for MPs and public servants. He welcomed private sector investment in luxury buses and requested relief for farmers, especially tea growers in Kalutara District, through fertilizer subsidies and price reductions.
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake moved that Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara take the Chair during the sitting. The motion was put to the House and agreed to, after which the Deputy Chairperson of Committees vacated the Chair and Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara assumed it.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Nandana Pathmakumara JJB
AI summary Hon. Nandana Pathmakumara supported the 2025 Budget presented by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake as Minister of Finance, arguing that it is directed toward health, education, moral development, agriculture, environmental cleanliness, and improved public services. He cited allocations for Triposha and nutrition, non-communicable disease treatment, Suwa Sariya, hospital management committees, education at all levels, religious-based moral education, and sports, while linking these to the Government’s wider objectives of “Clean Sri Lanka” and a prosperous country. He criticized the Opposition as politically motivated and said public trust in the Government’s relief measures and programmes would be reflected at the forthcoming local government elections.
- The Hon. Kanchana Welipitiya JJB
AI summary Hon. Kanchana Welipitiya supported the Second Reading of the Budget, presenting it as the NPP Government’s first Budget and a foundation for national rebuilding, while noting the Government had been in office only a few months and would more fully implement its programme in 2026. He highlighted expenditure reductions for the President, Ministers and MPs, including lower presidential allocations, fuel entitlements and insurance cover, and plans to move ministries into state-owned buildings. He said the Budget retained and expanded public benefits, citing salary and pension increases, a proposed Rs. 1,700 estate worker daily wage, higher elderly allowances, student and nutrition support, vocational trainee allowances, and increased Mahapola and bursary payments.
- The Hon. Nalin Hewage - Deputy Minister of Vocational Education JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Nalin Hewage defended the 2025 Budget as a historic and expansionary response to the economic crisis, arguing that increased public spending is needed to revive demand, production, employment, tourism, remittances, and investment. He criticised previous governments for bankruptcy, rising debt, currency depreciation, weak growth, asset sales, poor youth employment outcomes, and alleged economic mismanagement, citing figures on FDI, macroeconomic indicators, NEET youth, and public debt. He highlighted the Budget’s education allocation, a reported USD 3.7 billion project secured during the President’s China visit, and transport investments focused on rail efficiency and linking economic hubs to reduce fuel use and improve logistics.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva raised a Point of Order under Standing Order 82(1), objecting to a Member’s statement that Hon. Rohini Kavirathna had changed her name to “Rohini L. Marathna.” He questioned the basis for the claim, stated that to his knowledge no such name change had occurred, and argued that the Member had no right to make that assertion.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Nalin Hewage JJB
AI summary Nalin Hewage clarified that he had referred to “a person named Rohini Kavirathna” in connection with a newspaper item, not to the Hon. MP in her parliamentary capacity. He stated that if the reference was understood as relating to a Member of Parliament, he did not accept responsibility for that interpretation.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva objected to an allegedly false and insulting statement made about Hon. Rohini Kavirathna, a member of his party. He requested that the statement be withdrawn and emphasized that Members should not be insulted in Parliament.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Nalin Hewage JJB
AI summary Nalin Hewage clarifies that his earlier remark referred only to “a person” and was not intended as an insult to anyone. He asks the Hon. Member to listen to the speech properly before objecting.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- 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 recorded in the provided text.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Dr. Harsha de Silva expressed respect for the Presiding Member’s impartiality and endorsed the decision made. He requested that the matter be discussed with the Speaker before reaching a final decision.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva objected to a change in a previously announced decision, insisting that the decision had already been made and stated.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva objected to further discussion of a matter that had reportedly been ordered to be expunged from the Hansard. He insisted that it should not continue to be raised in the proceedings.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva disputed the prior characterization of a ruling or assurance, stating that the issue was not merely to be “looked into” but that it had been said the relevant remarks would be expunged or removed from the Hansard. His intervention sought clarification on the parliamentary record and the handling of statements in Hansard.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva objected to a change regarding a statement previously said to be removed or expunged from the Hansard. He argued that the decision could not now be reversed and that there was no right to state otherwise.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa – Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa addressed the Chair but the provided excerpt contains no substantive remarks beyond the opening salutation. No policy position, proposal, question, or legislative matter is included in the text supplied.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa stated that if Deputy Minister Nalin Hewage’s remarks had caused any injustice to Hon. Rohini Kaviratne, they should be expunged from the Hansard, indicating no objection to doing so.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva briefly maintained that he was continuing on a point of order and remarked that the preceding conduct reflected responsible action. No substantive policy proposal or legislative argument was made in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Nalin Hewage JJB
AI summary Nalin Hewage briefly intervened procedurally, instructing a member to sit down after indicating agreement or acknowledgement. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or legislative matter was raised.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva insisted on continuing his point of order and requested additional time from the Chair to complete it.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva challenged Hon. Nalin Hewage’s denial that he had claimed a Toyota Vitz could be imported for about Rs. 1.2 million, citing a Newswire article dated 2 November 2024. He placed the article in the Library and said it referred to removing taxes and other barriers to make such an import possible.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point of order. No substantive argument or proposal was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna invoked Standing Order 91(h), which prohibits imputing improper motives to another Member or referring to their personal affairs. He indicated that he had observed something earlier that day, apparently to raise a procedural concern under that Standing Order.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point objecting to the use of the term “mad” by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, noting that he had previously been addressed in the same manner and had ignored it. He sought the Presiding Member’s attention to what he considered inappropriate language in the Chamber.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna requested permission to speak. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or question was presented in the recorded excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilaka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilaka’s recorded intervention consists only of addressing the Presiding Member. No substantive argument, proposal, question, or reference to legislation or policy is included in the provided text.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilaka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilaka requested that a reference made by Deputy Minister Nalin Hewage concerning Rohini Kaviratne be expunged from the Hansard, noting that Harsha de Silva had already raised the matter and the Presiding Member had agreed. He argued that, following clarification by the Chief Government Whip, no further reconsideration was needed and the remarks should not be included in the official record.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva stated that a woman was on the telephone, was watching proceedings, and had been wronged. The brief remarks do not identify the person, provide details of the alleged wrong, or make a specific proposal or demand.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilaka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilaka sought confirmation from the Chair or relevant authority that a particular statement or portion of the record would be expunged. The intervention was procedural in nature and focused on the handling of the parliamentary record.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Mrs.) Nilusha Lakmali Gamage JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Nilusha Lakmali Gamage began to address the Presiding Member, but the provided excerpt contains no substantive remarks, proposals, questions, or policy position to summarize.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- An Hon. Member
AI summary An Hon. Member made a brief accusatory interjection alleging responsibility for the shooting of Vijaya Kumaratunga. No policy proposal, legislative issue, or procedural request was raised.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Nalin Hewage JJB
AI summary Nalin Hewage briefly referred to a “Master” and “big master,” but made no substantive argument, proposal, question, or reference to a specific policy, event, or legislative matter in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Mrs.) Nilusha Lakmali Gamage JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Nilusha Lakmali Gamage supported the maiden Budget as a “citizen’s budget” aimed at broad participation in economic recovery and fair distribution of production benefits. She highlighted allocations for health, including Rs. 600 billion for the sector, Rs. 1.5 billion for a cancer unit at Ratnapura Teaching Hospital, Rs. 400 million for a Ratnapura Maternity Care Complex, and Rs. 500 million for local production of assistive devices. She also emphasized funding for maternal and child nutrition, school meals, education, school infrastructure, university quality improvement, vocational training stipends, and support for rural agriculture through the fertiliser subsidy and cooperative-based mechanisms.
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna rose on a point of order. No substantive issue or argument was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point under Standing Order No. 91(h), which prohibits imputations of improper motives or references to Members’ personal affairs. He objected to another Member describing Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara as “media mania,” arguing that the remark was improper.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna requested that a referenced matter be removed from the Hansard.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Lal Premanath JJB
AI summary Hon. Lal Premanath defended the NPP Government’s maiden Budget, arguing that it is consistent with the party’s manifesto, the President’s policy statement, and the Budget Speech, and is aimed at poverty eradication, “Clean Sri Lanka,” and building a digital economy. He highlighted major allocations for health, education, transport, agriculture and nutrition, environmental protection, justice, national security, public service reform, and social protection. He said the Government had inherited economic and social decline from previous administrations and urged the Opposition to engage constructively rather than criticise without an alternative vision.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi – Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs
AI summary The Minister supported the Government’s first Budget, arguing that its allocations reflect a broader aim of social upliftment, human freedom, and support for vulnerable groups, including prisoners, persons with disabilities, children in care, and women. He linked provisions on transport, water, environment, and education to the need to rebuild society after recent national crises, citing local water shortages in Eheliyagoda and environmental degradation. He also criticised the Opposition for seeking to move past past abuses and failures, defended continued reference to such events as necessary for accountability, and called for greater public “Budget literacy” to prevent misinterpretation of fiscal measures such as salary proposals.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi argued that criticisms of the Budget had distorted the Minister’s statements and should be assessed against the detailed Estimates. He highlighted welfare allocations, including Rs. 441.3 billion for pensions and substantial payments to families of deceased and injured soldiers, as evidence that the Budget balances production and growth with social obligations. He also noted the Rs. 13.6 billion allocation to the Ministry of Digital Economy, saying it should support more efficient public services and reduce paperwork and administrative delays.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi expressed support for the Government’s first Budget, highlighting the Rs. 271 billion allocation for education. He argued that education is central to addressing past societal issues and said the Budget emphasizes building a humane, people-centred society.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof questioned whether the NPP Government’s first Budget reflects the leftist and “system change” policies it advocated while in Opposition, arguing that many proposals resemble conventional budget measures and previous administrations’ approaches. He criticised perceived reversals on issues such as foreign investment, the Trincomalee oil tanks and digitisation, and urged the Government to accept scrutiny without blaming past politicians or dismissing all former MPs as corrupt. He also called on Government members to clarify whether they understand and support the Budget and to align their conduct and policy implementation with the mandate for change.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage – Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports
AI summary The Minister defended the 2025 Budget as the Government’s first step toward “system change,” arguing that it redirects policy toward reducing corruption, waste and politically driven expenditure while rebuilding productive State assets. He cited projected revenues, recurrent expenditure, interest payments and the Rs. 1,315 billion capital expenditure allocation, stating that criticisms about missing revenue details or small project allocations ignored the Budget’s figures and multi-year funding structure. He also highlighted allocations for the North, including roads, housing, the Mullaitivu Waddduvakal Bridge and the Jaffna Library, framing them as part of national unity and post-conflict reconciliation.
- 7 Adjournment Adjournment Motion: Prevention of Unlawful Fishing Activities in the North 14 speeches