Sitting of Wednesday, 5 March 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 1742473561091594 ·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: Annual Reports and Committee Reports 5 speeches
- 3 Petitions Petitions Presented by Members 5 speeches
- 4 Oral question Oral Question: Madunagala Tourist Project (Q.1/2025) 6 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Question: Cey-Nor Housing Scheme, Batticaloa (Q.2/2025) 6 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Question: Substandard Coconut Oil (Q.3/2025) 6 speeches
- 7 Oral question Oral Question: Shops Leased Out in Polonnaruwa City Center (Q.4/2025) 6 speeches
- 8 Oral question Oral Question: Nilwala River Salinity Barrier - Farmer Compensation (Q.5/2025) 4 speeches
- 9 Oral question Oral Question: Fire Service Units in Mannar (Q.27(2)/2025) 3 speeches
- 10 Debate Appropriation Bill, 2025 – Committee Stage: Heads 124, 216, 331, 151 and 290 27 speeches
- 11 Debate Appropriation Bill, 2025 – Committee Stage Continued: Heads 124, 151, 331 133 speeches
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson recognized Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha and informed her that she had 10 minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha said the Budget allocation for the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment is intended to support inclusive development, with particular emphasis on psychological and social empowerment alongside economic measures. She outlined plans to address shortages of counsellors in Divisional Secretariats, conduct regular community mental health awareness programmes, develop gender-sensitive and youth-friendly services, and establish community day centres linked to mental health support. She noted that Rs. 707.15 million has been allocated in Budget 2025 for related institutions and programmes, including services for elders, counselling units, and social security. She also proposed improved data systems for counselling, reintegration pathways, reduced stigma, and pension avenues for informal sector workers, especially women.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen to speak and informed him that he had 13 minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen urged corrections to Aswesuma beneficiary selection, including Divisional Secretariat-level grievance redress, use and modernization of Samurdhi banks, promotions for long-serving Samurdhi officers, and wider coverage after the economic crisis. He called for stronger action against Indian trawlers, support for inland fisheries and the proposed Aquaculture Centre of Excellence in Mannar, and urgent coastal protection for Vankalai. He also requested redesign of Oluvil Harbour to benefit Eastern Province multi-day boat owners, targeted modernization support for IMUL vessels, and revocation or clarification of the Kalpitiya/Chilaw night-diving ban following NARA’s findings.
- Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip JJB
AI summary Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa clarified ahead of the Health Ministry Vote that a threatened doctors’ strike had been withdrawn after discussions and that health services were continuing normally. He said seven supplemental health professional cadres, including pharmacists, medical laboratory technologists, radiographers and therapists, had served significantly during the economic crisis and that the Government was increasing their remuneration to retain skilled staff. He outlined increases in basic salaries across grades, from about Rs. 22,000 at entry levels to about Rs. 43,320 at the highest grade, along with higher overtime hourly rates from April.
- Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa outlined increases to supplementary medical professionals’ public holiday allowances, annual salary increments, overtime-related benefits, and basic salaries, along with PAYE tax relief that exempts Grade II and Grade I officers and gives limited relief to some Supra Grade officers. He said the package covers about 5,500 workers and is the maximum currently affordable to the economy. He urged supplementary medical professionals not to be misled by claims from trade union figures, to avoid strike action, report to work, and continue discussions on further improvements as economic conditions improve.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Jeevan Thondaman to speak and informed him that he had 11 minutes allotted.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Jeevan Thondaman UNP
AI summary Hon. Jeevan Thondaman raised concerns about estate communities affected by fires, citing the Shannon Estate incident where 26 houses burned and over 100 people were displaced, and asked the Government to classify such cases as disaster-affected and prevent exclusion by estate managers in housing or land allocation. He warned that plantation companies are using revenue-sharing arrangements to deny workers daily wages, EPF/ETF contributions, and other protections, and called for government intervention to ensure fair wages and social security. He also said estate workers are being excluded from Aswesuma benefits due to registration criteria, highlighted poor health access and rising poverty in the hill country, and urged correction of delimitation and Grama Niladhari boundaries so public services can reach plantation communities properly.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. Jagath Vithana was recognized by the Deputy Chairperson and allocated 12 minutes to speak. No substantive remarks or policy content were included in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Jagath Vithana SJB
AI summary Hon. Jagath Vithana urged the Government to reconsider the proposed salary structure for doctors and supplementary medical professionals before the Appropriation Bill is passed, noting possible industrial action and concerns about disadvantages in the new structure. He also referred to graduate protests outside Parliament and criticized past trade union leaders now in government for their role in mobilizing those groups. He raised a grievance about being discouraged from attending events at C.W.W. Kannangara Central College, contrasting this with other politicians’ participation in school functions, and said he would attend the forthcoming sports meet. He further questioned tax enforcement, alleging that several businesspeople pay no income tax and calling on officials to act to recover significant revenue.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva was recognized to speak and allocated eight minutes. No substantive policy position or argument was presented in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva JJB
AI summary Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva responded to personal remarks made outside Parliament about his visual impairment, stating that they reflected prejudice and caused justified anger. He rejected accusations that he was sowing hatred and instead questioned whether references to MPs being “beaten” amounted to incitement against NPP or JVP members. He also highlighted long-standing failures to implement disability rights measures, including the 1996 Act, the 1988 circular reserving 3 per cent of government jobs for persons with disabilities, the 2003 disability policy and the 2014 National Action Plan.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Member that only two minutes remained for their speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva JJB
AI summary Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva criticized an unnamed MP as politically confused and asked the Leader of the Opposition to clarify the Opposition’s collective position on persons with disabilities. A quorum bell was rung during the exchange.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called upon the Hon. Chief Government Whip to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Bimal Rathnayake requested the Deputy Chairperson to grant another member an additional four minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva JJB
AI summary Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva questioned whether remarks by the SLFP General Secretary reflected the SLFP or Opposition view on persons with disabilities and urged cross-party cooperation under a “leaving no one behind” policy. He said the Budget would raise the disability allowance from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000, expand beneficiaries from about 150,000 to at least 400,000, eliminate waiting lists, and enforce accessibility measures. He also announced a Rs. 1 billion allocation to build a national disability database, arguing that data-driven policy is needed to integrate persons with disabilities into social welfare, education, technology, daily life, and national development.
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera expressed the Opposition’s support, including that of Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, for implementing long-pending approved proposals and policy commitments on the rights of persons with disabilities. He also conveyed regret over a distressing incident involving the Deputy Chairperson and said the Opposition would work cooperatively to protect equal rights and address the specific needs of persons with disabilities.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam was called to speak and allocated 12 minutes by the Hon. Deputy Chairperson at 2.11 p.m.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam raised concerns about northern fishermen, particularly in Jaffna, facing losses from Indian poaching despite a heavy Navy presence, and called for compensation and stronger protection. He urged the Ministry to provide substantial financial assistance, including support for multiday boats, and to ensure the Myliddy harbour benefits local fishermen by handing management to northern fishermen’s federations. He also objected to outside fishermen operating in Nayaru and to sea cucumber permits allegedly granted to non-locals in Kudaarappu, requesting immediate regulatory action. He further asked for dredging, groyne strengthening, and improved coastal access roads from Karkovalam to Neduntivu to support safe fishing operations.
- The Hon. Aruna Panagoda JJB
AI summary Hon. Aruna Panagoda raised a Point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson invited the Member to state their Point of Order.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Aruna Panagoda JJB
AI summary Aruna Panagoda questioned the Opposition Leader’s silence regarding alleged distressing remarks made by an Opposition MP about Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva. He argued that statements by Hon. Ajith P. Perera did not remove the Opposition Leader’s responsibility and asked for Sajith Premadasa’s position on the matter.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a Point of Order during the sitting. No substantive issue, question, or argument is recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on a Member to state their Point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or policy issue was raised in this intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna stated that his point was the same as one raised by the Government side. No further substantive argument or proposal was presented in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on the Hon. Member to proceed.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary The Member raised questions for the Fisheries Minister based on the “Major Public Investment Projects” document, referring to fisheries-sector projects valued over Rs. 250 million. He began by citing the development of the Myliddy Fishery Harbour as one such project, but part of his remarks was expunged by order of the Chair.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Hon. Deputy Chairperson intervened to inform a Member that their remarks were not relevant to the matter under discussion.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna objected to the allocation of speaking time, stating that the Government side had been allowed to speak and requesting an opportunity to respond.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Hon. Deputy Chairperson instructed the Member to proceed only if the matter was relevant. The intervention indicated that the Member appeared to be raising an unrelated issue.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Requested time to clarify, indicating that the point being raised was relevant to the ongoing proceedings.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson instructed the Member to conclude the speech within one minute, indicating a time-management intervention during the debate.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna questioned whether the Government applies different standards to itself and to him. The remark appears to raise a procedural or fairness concern, but no further policy detail or specific demand is provided in the quoted speech.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson instructed the member speaking to conclude within the remaining minute.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna requested additional speaking time, stating that he had been interrupted.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna questioned apparent inconsistencies in reported allocations for fisheries infrastructure in the Northern Province. He asked for clarification on the Myliddy fisheries harbour funding and handover status, and on whether the 2025 allocation for the Northern Province fisheries industry was Rs. 465 million or included the Rs. 500 million cited for Kurikattuwan jetty works at the District Coordinating Committee meeting.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Member that their allotted speaking time had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna requested additional speaking time, questioning why time was being allocated to the Government but not to his side. He asked the Minister of Fisheries to explain matters referred to on page 22 of a book or document before the House.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. (Dr.) Kavinda Heshan Jayawardhana to speak. No substantive remarks, arguments, proposals, or questions were recorded in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Kavinda Heshan Jayawardhana SJB
AI summary An allegation had been made against the Leader of the Opposition while he was not present in the House. The SJB parliamentary group and alliance expressed regret if any Member was caused distress, stating that their Leader shared the same position.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson recognized Hon. Kathiravelu Shanmugam Kugathasan to speak and allocated him eight minutes. No substantive policy position or proposal was made in this procedural intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Kathiravelu Shanmugam Kugathasan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Kathiravelu Shanmugam Kugathasan argued that the 2025 Budget allocation for fisheries is insufficient, particularly the reduced capital allocation, given the dependence of Trincomalee and the Eastern Province on the sector. He called for stronger action against Indian trawlers, dynamiting, small-mesh nets and especially purse seine fishing, proposing a full ban and joint monitoring teams with fishermen. He urged government intervention over alleged land encroachment by the Raigam salt project affecting inland fishers, strengthening of fishermen’s cooperatives, ice plants, value addition, completion of Oluvil harbour, concessional credit and multiday fishing centres. He also requested housing support for fishers and assistance for aquaculture through free fingerlings and development of inland water bodies in Trincomalee.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy to speak and informed him that he had eight minutes allocated. The intervention was procedural and did not address any substantive policy or legislative matter.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy JJB
AI summary Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy urged modernization of the Sea-Nor boat and gear facilities in Karainagar and Gurunagar, with Government and foreign partner funding, and called for fish processing and value-addition factories in the North to improve fishermen’s incomes. He highlighted the damage caused by illegal Indian bottom trawling in northern waters, citing large daily and annual losses to local fishers, environmental destruction, and reduced fish stocks, and asked for action to protect livelihoods and increase fish production. He also raised concerns about malnutrition and multidimensional vulnerability in the North, linking improved fisheries to better protein intake, GDP, and foreign exchange. On social security, he noted vulnerable groups affected by war, poverty, disability, addiction, and female-headed households, called for fairer “Aswesuma” beneficiary selection, and requested stronger social protection, infrastructure, and support for small entrepreneurs.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Member that their allotted speaking time had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy JJB
AI summary Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy highlighted the continuing social, economic and psychological impacts of war on civilians, including poverty, inflation and displacement. He proposed village-level employment and cottage industries based on local resources, implemented through relevant ministries with MPs’ support. He requested the Universities of Jaffna and Vavuniya to submit project proposals to the Government, stating that he would seek Budget funding to train rural communities and create stable incomes.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC, to speak and informed him that he had five minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper raised concern over recent statements by the Minister of Public Security and Cabinet Spokesman alleging radical teachings of children in Kalmunai, saying the generalized claims had caused confusion and suspicion in the community. He said local Islamic organizations and the Muslim community were ready to cooperate fully with lawful investigations into any extremist activity, including identifying funding and patronage, but urged the Government to avoid statements that could revive false narratives against Muslims. He requested a ministerial clarification to Parliament on the investigations and actions taken, and also asked that the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation restore its long-running nightly Islamic programme during Ramadan from 45 minutes to one hour.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Imran Maharoof to speak and allotted him 12 minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary The Hon. Imran Maharoof raised fisheries issues affecting Trincomalee District, calling for modernization of traditional fishing practices, restoration of loan facilities, and inclusion of housing and support programmes for fishermen. He asked the Minister to resolve disputes involving the Navy, including blocked access for fishermen in Pulmoddai. He also questioned the enforcement of purse seine fishing rules, arguing that if it is banned under the 1986 regulations, the ban should be applied uniformly nationwide rather than only in the North and East.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed Hon. Imran Maharoof that he had about two minutes remaining to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof raised concerns about the fisheries sector, particularly inadequate transport allowances for fisheries officers covering wide areas such as Trincomalee, and requested an increase. He also highlighted a nationwide shortage of fisheries officers, noting that recruitment has stalled since around 2015, and urged the Minister to proceed fairly with recruitment. He asked the Minister, the Ministry Secretary, and relevant officials to visit fishing communities across Trincomalee District, meet fishermen’s association leaders, and address their local grievances.
- Mr. Deputy Chairperson of Committees
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson of Committees announced a procedural change in the chairmanship of the sitting. Hon. Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi then assumed the Chair at 3.02 p.m.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Nandana Pathmakumara JJB
AI summary The Hon. Nandana Pathmakumara supported the Budget allocations under the Ministries of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment, and Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, saying the Government aims to assist vulnerable groups including the poor, sick, mentally distressed, elderly and differently-abled. He responded to Opposition questions on promised graduate employment by stating that recruitment for 30,000 graduates would follow proper application and interview procedures rather than arbitrary appointments. He highlighted the growing needs of the elderly, citing numbers of indigent elders in homes and cases of residents lacking identity documents or family support, and called for structured measures to ensure their dignity and access to services.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka rejected claims that he opposed support for Hon. Sugath Vasantha de Silva and asked that adequate time be given for line Ministers to respond to questions in debates. He disputed government statements on the Chandrika Wewa and Kiriibbanwewa floating solar projects and the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm, saying these initiatives had already begun or progressed earlier and should not be presented as new. He said the Government must resolve doctors’ pay and structural salary concerns without encouraging strikes or vilifying doctors, and argued that Sunday and holiday work should be compensated differently from ordinary monthly pay. He also welcomed fisheries plans but urged timely payment of the promised Rs. 25 per litre diesel subsidy, noting delays since November and hardship to fishing communities.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara clarified that his earlier remarks concerning Hon. Sugath Vasantha de Silva were not intended to insult persons with special needs. He apologized to Hon. de Silva and to anyone in the special needs community who may have been hurt, stating that leaders should be willing to say sorry when necessary.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe outlined Trade Ministry plans to improve access to affordable fish through processed, frozen packs sold via Sathosa in collaboration with the Fisheries Corporation, with a target of expanding the retail network by 1,000 outlets over three years. He also addressed longstanding administrative and pension issues affecting Samurdhi/Divineguma/Aswesuma staff, including unresolved appointments, delayed pensions, unsettled funds, and the status of 1,100 Samurdhi Banks. He said a Cabinet Paper has been submitted on the disputed recovery of 60 per cent Government EPF/ETF contributions, related surcharges, pending appointments, and retirement benefits, while implementation would proceed subject to the outcome of ongoing court proceedings.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister stated that the Government would address accumulated administrative issues, including regularizing appointments for employees without EPF coverage and clearing pension backlogs for around 800 retirees. He also said a policy proposal had been made to manage surcharges when recovering the 60 per cent Government contribution, to prevent gratuity payments being fully absorbed, and linked these measures to strengthening social empowerment and service delivery.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. B. Ariyawansha SJB
AI summary Hon. B. Ariyawansha reviewed rural poverty alleviation programmes since 1948 and said Aswesuma, while covering over 1.2 million households, has not always selected the most deserving beneficiaries. He requested a clear GN division-based verification process involving local State officers to reduce omissions. He also called for targeted infrastructure, sanitation, education, healthcare, and water-access improvements in disadvantaged districts, particularly Ratnapura and estate areas, and urged progress on the Ruwanpura Expressway and restoration of the Avissawella–Opanayake railway line to improve connectivity and transport of produce.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah urged increased investment in the fisheries sector, focusing on the Eastern Province, and requested the removal of silt and development of the gazetted Oluvil Fishery Harbour to serve Kalmunai and nearby multi-day fishing boats. He also called for urgent improvements at Valaichchenai Harbour, a landing facility or floating jetty at Poonochchimunai, and greater support for fishermen facing high Vessel Monitoring System fees and maintenance costs. He highlighted organized fish theft at sea, the inadequacy of current fines, and asked the Minister to introduce stronger legislation and coordinate enforcement with the Navy, Army, and Police.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah indicated that he would conclude his remarks within one minute and thanked the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri defended the Government’s use of statistics, stating they were drawn from sources such as UNICEF, the World Bank, the Central Bank, and the Department of Census and Statistics, while criticising Opposition claims on governance and the economy. He highlighted rural and estate poverty, income inequality in Polonnaruwa, and human–elephant conflict, citing recent local deaths and hardships. He argued that the Budget addresses earlier Opposition concerns by providing 30,000 jobs, expanding Aswesuma by 400,000 beneficiaries with Rs. 233 billion allocated, and increasing the preschool meal allowance from Rs. 60 to Rs. 100, concluding that it was a successful Budget of the National People’s Power Government.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M.A.M. Thahir ACMC
AI summary Hon. M.A.M. Thahir raised concerns that recent actions in Kalmunai, reportedly citing “Islamic extremists,” risk stigmatizing the wider Muslim community, while affirming the community’s cooperation against threats to national sovereignty. He questioned funding for sustaining the former “Saubhagya” production villages, sought clarification on savings of Samurdhi beneficiaries excluded from Aswesuma, and requested Divisional Secretariat-based selection mechanisms for fairness. He urged greater development of fisheries, including dredging and operationalizing Oluvil Harbour, establishing an ice factory in Sainthamaruthu or Kalmunai, restoring the deep-sea telecom tower, and acting on the Danish geotechnical study. He also requested increased allocations for inland fisheries development in tanks across Akkaraipattu, Nintavur, Pottuvil, and Irakkamam.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna rose to a Point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna questioned the Minister on allocations for Northern Province investment projects, asking how Rs. 500 million was assigned to Kurikkattuwan despite it not appearing in the listed Major Investment Project framework for 2025–2027. He also raised concerns about the Rs. 717 million allocation and increased total cost for Mayiliddy Harbour, noting it had not been handed over to the public, and alleged that Rs. 315 million listed in the 2024 BOQ for the Northern Province was not reflected on the ground. He requested clarification on the funding source and approval process for the Kurikkattuwan allocation.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe rejected allegations linking the Muslim community in Kalmunai to extremism, citing local cooperation with police after the Easter attacks as evidence of opposition to terrorism. He urged the Government to develop and open the Oluvil Fishery Harbour and other harbour facilities in Ampara, with coastal protection works to address erosion affecting local residents. He also called for compensation for fishermen affected by recent floods, damaged boats, deaths at sea, and cases involving fishermen who drifted or were detained after leaving from Kappaladi Fishery Harbour.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation and Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary The Minister expressed support during the Committee Stage debate for the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, noting its relevance to the Northern Province and its fishing communities. He commended Minister Ramalingam Chandraseker, Deputy Minister Ranna Gamage and officials, and urged attention to areas such as Kurunagar, the islands, Mullaitivu and Nayaru through fisheries-based livelihood development.
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake highlighted the economic potential of northern fisheries and related products, including marine plants in Kilinochchi and the jaggery industry beyond the planned Vaddakandal bridge, while noting that northern fishing communities remain poorer than those in the South. He welcomed Budget allocations for the Vaddakandal bridge and called for targeted support for northern fishermen. He urged the Tamil Nadu and Indian Governments to prevent illegal fishing that harms the livelihoods of northern Sri Lankan fishing communities, asking India to enforce its own laws.
- The Hon. Mano Ganesan SJB
AI summary Hon. Mano Ganesan urged that the issue of northern fishermen be included in the briefing for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned visit to Sri Lanka in April. He said the continued loss of property and marine resources is the main problem facing fishermen in the North, distinct from wartime circumstances, and called for discussions aimed at resolving it, offering full cooperation.
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake urged the Indian Government and the Tamil Nadu Government to address the recurring fisheries-related problems affecting northern Sri Lankan communities, particularly in areas such as Mannar, where he said livelihoods have been severely reduced. He argued that assistance to post-war communities should focus on enabling people to sustain themselves rather than only providing relief or cash support. He also commended the Fisheries Ministry and requested that the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation be strengthened and its retail outlets expanded to provide affordable, quality fish to the public.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran ITAK
AI summary Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran rose on a point of order. No substantive issue, proposal, or question was stated in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran ITAK
AI summary The Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran briefly noted that the Minister of Fisheries was already fully aware of the issues being raised. He then referred to Bimal Rathnayake in his capacity as Minister of Transport and Highways, indicating a shift or clarification regarding ministerial responsibility.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Nihal Galappaththi JJB
AI summary Hon. Nihal Galappaththi said the Government is implementing a scientific programme to reorganize and develop the fresh, brackish and marine fisheries sectors, with Budget allocations including Rs. 780 million for fisheries infrastructure in the Northern Province. He stated that 62 anchorage sites in Jaffna, Mannar, Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi will be developed, and rejected claims of inaction on Indian fishing incursions by citing past protests and legal amendments enabling heavy fines. He also said fisheries harbours, anchorages and related state institutions, including NAQDA, NARA and the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation, would be assessed and rebuilt over the next five years, while inviting constructive criticism and support.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Stephni Fernando JJB
AI summary Stephni Fernando began remarks during the debate on the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, stating that fisheries is a significant industry for Sri Lanka and that attention should be given not only to its development but also to its protection and sustainability. The speech was interrupted by the Presiding Member calling for a name to be proposed for the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Aruna Panagoda JJB
AI summary Hon. Aruna Panagoda moved that Hon. Ajantha Gammeddege take the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Thilanka U. Gamage JJB
AI summary Hon. Thilanka U. Gamage formally seconded the motion before the House. The question was then put and agreed to, after which the Chair changed from Hon. Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi to Hon. Ajantha Gammeddage.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Stephni Fernando JJB
AI summary Hon. Stephni Fernando argued for shifting fisheries policy from extraction to conservation and sustainable, higher-value production, citing the Maldives as an example and noting damage from banned nets, plastics, and poor awareness among fishing communities. She said the Government would educate fisherfolk, enforce the 1979 prohibition on foreign poaching through new amendments, support domestic canned fish production through 21 factories, and implement coral reef and marine protection measures including the Clean Sri Lanka initiative. She also disputed an Opposition claim about salt prices, stating that a 50 kg bag costs about Rs. 4,500, and linked fisheries development to national economic growth.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan urged the Fisheries Ministry to revive several idle fisheries and aquaculture facilities in Batticaloa, including a prawn hatchery, fish fry production centre and ice plant, and to address licensing and authorization issues in prawn farming projects in Vakarai. He called for stronger fisheries development from Kathiraveli to Kallar, new or improved harbour facilities, fair distribution of boats and gear, and revitalization of the Ocean University regional campus at Kallady–Navalady. He also raised concerns about illicit liquor, drugs and violent “sword culture” incidents in Batticaloa, asking authorities to act promptly and ensure more effective policing.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan ITAK
AI summary Gnanamuththu Srineshan highlighted inadequate transport and road facilities in difficult rural areas. He renewed his request to Hon. Bimal Rathnayake to construct the Kattumurivu road for indigenous communities, fishers, and farmers, urging immediate action to strengthen public confidence in the Government.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Piyathissa - Deputy Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Piyathissa defended the Budget’s use of existing lawful data systems and said a fuller scientific database on vulnerable groups had not been developed by previous governments. He outlined the Ministry’s 2025–2029 community empowerment programme targeting two million families, with circulars issued and officers briefed to prepare family development plans. Citing data on elderly persons, persons with disabilities, informal workers, drug addiction, mental health issues and families of prisoners, he argued that welfare spending such as Aswasuma must shift from dependency relief to economic and social empowerment through locally based livelihoods, youth employment and coordinated field work by ministry and Samurdhi officers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Hector Appuhamy SJB
AI summary Hector Appuhamy briefly noted the relevance of the two Ministries under debate and referred to his previous proposal to assign an additional small responsibility to Grama Niladharis to support their work. He also expressed disappointment that Hon. Galappaththi, whom he acknowledged for his contributions in Sectoral Oversight Committees, had been allotted only five minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Hector Appuhamy SJB
AI summary Hon. Hector Appuhamy criticised the Government’s handling of the Aswasuma welfare scheme, arguing that unclear selection criteria were placing local officials in difficulty and risked politicising assistance ahead of elections. He called for a fairer system that targets genuinely needy households and for programmes that help people move out of poverty rather than relying only on cash transfers. On fisheries, he said the Budget lacked a comprehensive programme for the sector despite its importance to food supply, livelihoods and foreign exchange. He urged equal enforcement of bans on harmful fishing methods, action against Indian bottom trawlers, protection for seasonal fishers migrating between regions, timely relief payments, fuel and tax support, completion of harbour works including Muttuvaram, and measures to reduce the cost and improve the quality of fishing gear and export handling facilities.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam raised several Batticaloa fisheries-related issues, requesting a harbour at Urukaamam, action to restore boat-parking space allegedly fenced off in the Valachchenai/Kalluvankerny area, and repairs including a small bridge on the Eravur–Kaluvankerny road to support fishermen’s access to fuel and ice facilities. He also objected to restrictions on raising urgent national matters in the morning and criticized the Chair’s handling of Members’ dignity and privilege. He then asked the State Minister of Defence to respond to allegations of a meeting involving former security and political figures shortly before a court order concerning Deshbandu Tennakoon, suggesting possible national security implications and questioning the Government’s ability to account for unresolved cases and missing suspects.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam objected that Parliament had debated the murder of Ganemulla Sanjeewa but had not permitted debate on a fatal sword attack in Batticaloa. He criticized perceived partiality in the handling of proceedings, urged parliamentary officials to protect the dignity of their offices, and requested the State Minister of Defence to ensure a thorough investigation into the matters he raised.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna rose to raise a point of order. No substantive issue or argument was presented in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna requested an additional minute to continue speaking. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or question was raised in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna briefly rises on a point of reference, noting that his name had been mentioned during the proceedings.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri requested the Presiding Member’s permission to make a brief correction.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary The Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources began referring to matters concerning his Ministry, but the provided excerpt is incomplete and does not include any substantive argument, proposal, question, or demand to summarize.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri referred to Hon. Shanakiyan Rasamanickam’s criticism of the Speaker and noted Rasamanickam’s strong electoral performance in their district, where he entered Parliament with the second-highest preference vote total. He also alluded to Rasamanickam’s campaign style, saying they campaigned “with coconut branches.”
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar began to address the Presiding Member, noting proceedings since the morning, but his remarks were interrupted. No substantive argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar thanked Members who contributed to the debate on the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources and said the points raised had been noted. He stated that suitable action would be taken and solutions provided in due course.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point of order, asserting his right to speak and requesting that he be allowed to proceed.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam briefly noted that the same confusion had occurred the previous day. His remark was made amid an interruption and did not elaborate on the issue or propose any specific action.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar objected to interruptions during his speaking time and asked Members to stop disturbing him. He insisted that he be allowed to continue without disruption and directed the interjecting Members to sit down.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna stated that wrongdoing should be openly acknowledged and called out. The remark was a brief assertion of the need to speak up when misconduct occurs.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar made a brief humorous remark directed at the Presiding Member amid an interruption, prompting laughter. No substantive policy, legislative issue, proposal, or question was raised in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna briefly addressed the Presiding Member but was interrupted before making any substantive remarks. No policy position, proposal, or question was stated in the recorded excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna objected to being limited to 30 seconds, stating that a point of order should be allowed one minute. He alleged that his phone was tapped in 2021 and that on the 23rd his party Leader wrote to the Police seeking his arrest without informing him, claiming the Leader was acting on another agenda.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- An Hon. Member
AI summary An Hon. Member objected to remarks being made in Parliament, characterizing them as useless. The intervention occurred amid interruptions and did not include any specific policy proposal, question, or legislative argument.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar said the Fisheries Ministry is reviewing problems across all 15 coastal districts and has prepared a new work plan after finding key institutions, including the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation, NAQDA, Cey-Nor and North Sea Ltd., heavily indebted and in arrears on worker contributions. He pledged not to betray the support of northern fishermen and cited rehabilitation of harbour infrastructure in Point Pedro, Myliddy, Pesalai, Mannar and Mullaitivu, as well as plans to develop inland fisheries and ornamental aquaculture with provincial coordination. Responding to concerns on fuel subsidies, he said over Rs. 800 million had been paid to 31,143 registered craft, delays were due to monthly card updates and bank account issues, and more than Rs. 3,000 million remains to be disbursed.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Minister that their allotted speaking time had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar acknowledged the cooperation of the Ministry’s Secretary, Directors, staff, and Deputy Minister in advancing ministerial work, noting coordination across ministries. He also paid tribute to Hon. Nihal Galappaththi, describing him as a respected senior colleague who guides their work.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Upali Pannilage - Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment JJB
AI summary Concluding the debate on his Ministry, the Minister said the Aswasuma data system would be updated within a year in line with the Government’s policy statement and would be used to determine benefits this year. He stated that the Samurdhi Development Department had been re-strengthened, with higher office allowances for officers and managers, proper duties and allowances for graduates in Samurdhi Banks, and promotion schemes introduced across several grades. He also noted a Cabinet decision to allow eligible long-serving Samurdhi officers to retire, and said the elderly allowance had been increased from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000 while expanding beneficiaries from about 857,000 to 1,020,000.
- 12 Procedural Appropriation Bill, 2025 – Committee Stage: Final Amendments and Progress Report 18 speeches
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