Sitting of Monday, 17 March 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 1745486934006324 ·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 Speaker's Announcements and Ministerial Special Mentions 3 speeches
- 2 Committee report Ministerial Consultative Committee Reports 1 speeches
- 3 Petitions Petitions Presentation 3 speeches
- 4 Oral question Oral Answers to Questions (Q.504/2025, Q.510/2025, Q.483/2025, Q.493/2025) 16 speeches
- 5 Procedural Sectoral Oversight Committees Appointment Motion 2 speeches
- 6 Debate Appropriation Bill 2025 - Committee Stage Debate on Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs and Ministry of Environment 103 speeches
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Kins Nelson SJB
AI summary Hon. Kins Nelson moved the traditional token reduction of Rs. 10 under the relevant Heads during the Committee Stage debate and focused on the Ministry of Environment, particularly the human-elephant conflict. He said Wildlife Conservation staffing vacancies, inadequate guard huts, poorly maintained electric fences, and the absence of funding for new fencing were contributing to rising human deaths, elephant deaths and property damage, citing recent national and Polonnaruwa District figures. He proposed strengthening field staff, improving guard huts with electricity and water, repairing and expanding fencing, and creating a structured response programme. He also raised concerns about Yala National Park’s congestion, limited entry points, inadequate operational funding, poaching risks in underused blocks, and derelict bungalows, proposing additional gates, more guides, better monitoring and rehabilitation of accommodation.
- The Hon. Kins Nelson SJB
AI summary Hon. Kins Nelson proposed developing an access road from Angammedilla National Park to Wasgamuwa to retain tourists within Polonnaruwa, while requiring them to enter and exit via Angammedilla. He raised concerns about cattle being released into Maduru Oya National Park, impacts on wildlife habitat and human-elephant conflict, and called for designated environmentally appropriate areas for dairy cattle outside protected zones. He also requested regulated subsistence access for villagers near wildlife zones, support for small traditional gem miners, and the permanent absorption of experienced national park guides whose numbers have declined despite an allowance increase.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi - Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs JJB
AI summary The Minister opened the debate on the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Budget Head, arguing that religious, cultural, artistic and heritage work is central to social norms and national development. He outlined a total 2025 allocation of Rs. 13,725 million, including funds for the Ministry and departments covering Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Christian affairs, archaeology, museums, archives and cultural institutions. He said the Government would support religious education, festivals, worship-site development, solar projects, and the forthcoming public exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic, while also investing in cultural heritage research such as work related to the Fahiengala human remains.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Sajith Premadasa called for a comprehensive, nonpartisan environmental policy framework, including a National Ecosystem Assessment, biodiversity valuation, clear conservation targets, a National Land Use Plan and a National Physical Plan. He proposed community-based conservation, circular economy measures, stronger action on pollution, plastics and deforestation, and evidence-based mitigation of human-wildlife conflict using technology, insurance and stable long-term planning. He urged Sri Lanka to use international climate and biodiversity conventions, green finance and eco-tourism opportunities, citing India’s Project Tiger, and proposed an international environmental university through a public-private partnership. He also asked for employment stability for wildlife volunteers and multipurpose development officers, and for systematic wildlife censuses that integrate credible private conservation data into national policy.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Sajith Premadasa SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa called for a specialized national ecotourism plan modelled on India’s Project Tiger, arguing that Sri Lanka could conserve elephants, leopards, whales and dolphins while generating foreign exchange and community benefits. He urged systematic human-wildlife conflict mitigation, stronger institutional capacity, insurance mechanisms, continuity across administrations, and greater priority for animal welfare. He also proposed establishing an international environmental university through public-private partnerships, regularizing long-serving volunteers and stabilizing multipurpose officers in wildlife work, and using scientific censuses and private monitoring initiatives to support conservation, ecotourism and national development.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Dammika Patabendi - Minister of Environment JJB
AI summary The Minister said the Environment Ministry’s institutions have been consolidated under one ministry for the first time, bringing 12 agencies under a framework intended to improve coordination, engage environmentalists through ten thematic committees, and support both conservation and economic activity. He said the 2025 Budget allocates Rs. 16,040 million to the Ministry, including plans to modernize the Environment Act after 24 years, introduce air quality monitoring and public alerts, and digitize Environmental Protection Licence processes. He also stated that Cabinet has approved 144 recruitments to the Central Environmental Authority and that 3,530 appointments for multipurpose development officers attached to the Department of Wildlife Conservation will be issued once Public Service Commission approval is received.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran ITAK
AI summary Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran expressed willingness to cooperate with the Government on rebuilding the country, but alleged that state agencies and extremist Buddhist monks have contributed to ethnic tension, land seizures, and disruption of religious harmony in the North and East. Citing incidents at Semmalai Pillaiyar Temple, Kokkilai, and Kurundur Malai in Mullaitivu, he claimed that court orders were disregarded, Hindu worship was obstructed, private and temple lands were taken over, and Buddhist structures or symbols were installed with state support. He called for justice, transparency in archaeological work, and an end to the use of archaeology and religious sites for demographic or territorial changes.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ruwan Mapalagama JJB
AI summary Hon. Ruwan Mapalagama defended the Government’s cultural policy and Budget allocations for the Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs portfolio, arguing that a national cultural revival is needed to address violence, frustration and loss of compassion in society. He outlined proposed programmes including literary festivals, teacher training in literature and aesthetics, support for children’s arts, plantation community cultural initiatives, Jaffna school library books, sign-language films, and competitions for creators with disabilities. He also said cultural centres should be restored to their core cultural role and that aesthetic appreciation should be broadened across the education system. The speech also criticized the Opposition’s parliamentary attendance and predictions about the Government’s instability, while asserting that the Government’s large mandate remains intact.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Hon. Dilith Jayaweera argued that Sri Lanka’s nationhood should be understood through its Sinhala-Buddhist-rooted civilizational heritage while emphasizing that identity should be based on conduct rather than birth. He said misunderstandings and politicization have damaged interreligious harmony, called for any restrictions on religious or cultural freedoms to be corrected, and cited examples of shared cultural influence among communities. He welcomed the President’s engagement with the Mahanayake Theras and the planned exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic, urging similar respectful observances at Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya. He said the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs should do more than administer grants or publications and should help shape the cultural and civilizational foundation of the country.
- The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Hon. Dilith Jayaweera referred to the Easter Sunday attacks, arguing that continued political focus on identifying a “mastermind” could harm interreligious and ethnic relations unless handled with sensitivity and agreement. He said Buddhism’s non-competitive character should be used to build an inclusive nation, while acknowledging past political mistakes. He also welcomed State patronage for Buddhist religious events and urged similar support for other communities, including proposing a large Iftar during Ramazan.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Upul Kithsiri JJB
AI summary Upul Kithsiri criticized an Opposition MP, referring to a prior incident involving “dogs,” and questioned that member’s credibility in speaking about culture, civilization, and religion. He argued that the incident had contributed to harm in the country and framed the remarks as part of a broader critique of the Opposition’s conduct.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Raising a point of order, Dilith Jayaweera responded to a direct reference to him, clarifying that a short clip had aired on “Derana” while other channels carried longer broadcasts, including a one-hour programme. He argued that the criticism was not directed personally at him but amounted to an attack on the Kelaniya Temple and Buddhist cultural beliefs, and called for what he described as a cultural assault to be stopped.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Upul Kithsiri JJB
AI summary Hon. Upul Kithsiri stated that the Government’s first Budget gives special attention to wildlife conservation and the human-elephant conflict, including allocations of Rs. 400 million to reduce the conflict, Rs. 274 million for electric fences, and Rs. 160 million for wildlife feeding zones. He argued that fences alone are insufficient and that corridors, biodiversity-based methods, community support, and increased staffing for the Department of Wildlife Conservation are also needed. He highlighted the economic value of national parks and wildlife facilities, plans to develop additional national parks and elevate the Giritale Wildlife Research and Training Centre, and emphasized protection of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity and forest resources.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda SLPP
AI summary Chanaka Madugoda argued that religious and cultural affairs require stronger State attention amid rising violence and social hostility, and said the Budget does not provide sufficient support for places of worship or Dhamma schools. He urged the Government to uphold constitutional protections for Buddhism and other religions by resolving disputes at historic Buddhist sites including Tissa Viharaya in Jaffna and Kurundi Viharaya in Mullaitivu, proposing a special committee, alternative land for unauthorized occupants, and expedited legal protection. He also called for around 600 identified archaeological sites in the Northern Province to be gazetted and preserved, and noted stalled road development to Sapumalgaskada Viharaya.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda SLPP
AI summary Hon. Chanaka Madugoda argued that upholding dignity and responsible conduct in Parliament could help reduce racism, religious extremism, and narrow political aims in society. He expressed hope that the Government would have the strength to foster a country where people can live well.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna - Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure JJB
AI summary The Minister argued that Sri Lanka’s environmental crises, including landslides, floods and forest fires, are linked to past politically driven misuse of natural resources and cannot be addressed separately from economic and social policy. He said the Government aims to pursue environmentally friendly development through integrated planning across ministries, contrasting this with previous approaches he described as environmentally harmful development. He outlined the National People’s Power environmental policy, based on 13 principles and 80 actions, highlighting environmental justice, balancing development with conservation, sustainable resource use, and soil conservation in the central highlands.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Hon. Dr. Elayathamby Srinath argued that religious and ethnic equality are necessary for stability and development, and called for equal State support for Hindu, Christian and Muslim religious heritage alongside Buddhism. He asked the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs to allocate funds and programmes for ancient temples and churches in the North and East, cited obstacles by the Archaeology Department and a Habarana bus stand blocking a Hindu temple frontage, and requested explanations on who approved such projects. He also urged the Government to involve Tamil academics and experts in archaeological work to protect Tamil heritage, and raised concerns that Forest Department control over village tanks and lands in Batticaloa is affecting irrigation and inland fisheries.
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Sagarika Athauda, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sagarika Athauda highlighted the recognition of two Sri Lankan women wildlife officers and used it to frame a broader discussion on environmental conservation, forest destruction, development in protected areas, and human-wildlife conflict, particularly elephant deaths and crop damage in districts such as Kegalle. She said the NPP Government is seeking to correct long-standing environmental mismanagement through a systematic approach, citing the Government’s policy principles on environmental justice, sustainable resource use, institutional coordination, public participation, and environmental governance. She noted Budget allocations to the Ministry of Environment, the consolidation of environment-related institutions under one Ministry, the State Timber Corporation’s 2024 revenue of Rs. 1,915 million and production of 8,122 elephant fence posts, and Rs. 1,112 million allocated to the Department of National Botanic Gardens for plant conservation and related activities.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahman argued that child marriage should be treated as a national issue affecting all communities, citing 2012 Department of Census and Statistics data to reject claims that it is mainly a Muslim community problem. He defended the continued recognition of personal laws such as Muslim law, Kandyan law and Thesawalamai, while saying any shortcomings can be discussed and corrected, and urged Members to use statistics responsibly in Parliament. He also drew the Minister’s attention to a 122-year-old Muslim place of worship within the Mahara Prison compound, indicating a concern relating to its status after the 2019 Easter attacks.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Gamagedara Dissanayake - Deputy Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister said the 2025 Budget provides increased allocations for the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, enabling expanded practical programmes across religious and cultural sectors. He highlighted plans to develop rural places of worship, implement the Puja Bhoomi Development Programme, support the Sangha, strengthen Dhamma schools and Shasanarakshaka Mandalas, and introduce initiatives such as “Punya Gramme” to promote village-level social cohesion. He also outlined support for Hindu, Islamic and Christian religious affairs, including cultural activities and places of worship, and said the Central Cultural Fund and related institutions would continue projects to conserve archaeological sites and national heritage.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi responded to Opposition concerns about religious and archaeological interventions in the North, including Buddha statues, Tissa Viharaya in Jaffna, land issues, and resettlement. He said the current Government has not initiated the cited interventions, many of which occurred earlier, and clarified that the Ministry of Buddhasasana has no authority to alienate land. He stated that issues such as land regularization in Thondamanaru/Thayiddy should be examined and resolved with harmony and patience, while rejecting claims that the Government is fostering hostility towards minorities and noting Budget emphasis on Northern development and inter-community harmony.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi stated that the National Security Council noted shortages of Tamil-speaking Archaeology Department officers in the North and East, and that remaining vacancies would be filled with attention to work that does not disrupt local communities. He said an expert committee has been appointed on the Kurundi Vihara issue, with excavations suspended there pending an amicable resolution, and that issues at Wadunagala arose from actions beyond departmental recommendations. He also noted Rs. 36 million allocated for infrastructure related to the Kochchikade Hindu Kovil and explained funding through the Hindu Cultural Fund, while confirming attention to finding suitable land for the Mahara Prison mosque closed after the 2019 Easter attacks.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair recognized Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe as the next speaker and allotted him 15 minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe raised concerns during the Committee Stage debate on the Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs about comments and proposed changes relating to the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, urging prior consultation with the ACJU, religious leaders and community representatives. He asked that racist statements about the Muslim community be prevented in Parliament and called on the Government to obtain information from Ven. Gnanasara Thera regarding his claim to know those behind the Easter Sunday attacks. He also alleged political interference in the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs and the Wakfs Board, citing the Sainthamaruthu Jumu’ah Mosque trustee appointment process and tabling related correspondence and lists.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair informed Hon. Uthumalebbe that his allotted speaking time had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe requested the relevant Minister to appoint a special committee through the Ministry to resolve the Sainthamaruthu mosque administration issue. He warned that, if left unresolved, political influence could spread into mosque administrations across the country.
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Saroja Savithri Paulraj - Minister of Women and Child Affairs JJB
AI summary The Minister responded to allegations that she was pursuing legal or religious law reforms, clarifying that her portfolio is Women and Child Affairs and not Justice. She stated that her position concerns children’s and women’s rights, particularly ensuring 13 years of compulsory education for all children up to age 18, in line with national policy and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. She said she had discussed these matters transparently with ACJU leaders and urged MPs and community leaders to counter misinformation and avoid framing the issue in racial or religious terms.
- The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe rose on a Point of Order. No substantive issue, proposal, or question was recorded in the provided text.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair intervened to prevent the exchange from becoming a debate and allowed the member only 30 seconds to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe questioned reports that the Government had assured the UN it would amend the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act in relation to child marriage, arguing that such matters should be discussed domestically with bodies such as the ACJU. He said child marriage rates were not highest among Muslims and asked why the Muslim community was being singled out in this context.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair asked the Member to proceed, noting that the point had already been made.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Mrs.) Saroja Savithri Paulraj - Minister of Women and Child Affairs JJB
AI summary The Minister stated that her remarks at the UN CEDAW session had been misreported by the Daily Ceylon, emphasizing that she answered specific questions posed to Sri Lanka and did not make the statement attributed to her. She said issues on children’s rights require balancing cultural rights and human rights through consultations with diverse groups, and denied saying the Ministry would lead legal changes. She indicated that legal action would be taken over the alleged misreporting.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair recognized Hon. (Dr.) Chrishantha Abeysena and informed him that he had eight minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Chrishantha Abeysena - Minister of Science and Technology JJB
AI summary The Minister discussed the role of religion and culture in Sri Lankan society, stating that children should be able to study their chosen religion in schools and that inter-religious harmony should be promoted through an inter-religious council and comparative religious studies. He said religion and ethnicity had been used politically, referred to the Easter Sunday attacks as requiring a proper investigation, and pledged that the Government would consolidate evidence and pursue justice through the Attorney General. He noted increased allocations for Christian affairs and overall religious affairs, proposed designating Madhu Church as a centre for peace and harmony, and said constitutional reform must be accompanied by changes in attitudes in both the North and South, while the economy remains the immediate priority.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary Mr. Chairman called on Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah to speak next and informed him that he had 17 minutes for his speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. Hizbullah thanked the Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs for assistance to the Muslim community, including duty relief on dates, and urged action on longstanding administrative issues affecting Muslim religious institutions. He requested expedited registration of Arabic colleges, implementation of the approved common national syllabus and examination system, and establishment of a training centre for imams, muezzins and teachers. He also called for the Batticaloa regional office of the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs to be properly staffed, for restrictions on Qur’ans and Arabic books to be eased, and for a detained consignment of Qur’ans with Tamil translations to be released. On Hajj arrangements, he urged allowing lower-cost categories C and D, arguing that current high-cost packages exclude less affluent pilgrims.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary Mr. Chairman informed the Member that their allotted speaking time had expired.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah briefly welcomed the Minister’s stated position and expressed willingness to support the Minister’s work.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair called Hon. Bimal Rathnayake to speak and informed him that he had 13 minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation and Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary Minister Bimal Rathnayake said the Government’s electoral mandate reflected public support for coexistence across ethnic and religious communities, and rejected allegations that it sought to change Muslim personal laws without consultation. He defended Minister Saroja Paulraj against what he described as unfair attacks, stating that any legal reforms affecting religious communities would be undertaken only after discussion with relevant stakeholders. He urged Muslim scholars and leaders to help address misinformation, and called for protection of all religious and cultural rights, greater institutional diversity, and inclusive recognition of Islamic, Catholic, Hindu, Buddhist and other heritage. He also proposed broader scholarly oversight of archaeological work and education reforms that present Sri Lanka’s history in a way that affirms the belonging and contributions of all communities.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana NDF
AI summary Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana urged the Government to ensure religious freedom and transparency while responding to media criticism of the Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs. He called for justice for the victims of the Easter Sunday attacks by identifying and prosecuting the masterminds, requested heightened security during religious observances and visits to the Temple of the Tooth, and cautioned against politicizing religious events. On environmental policy, he argued that conservation should be balanced with economic needs, citing expressway delays and calling for regulated small-scale sand mining in the Kalu Ganga if technically sustainable.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Muneer Mulaffer - Deputy Minister of National Integration JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Muneer Mulaffer spoke during the debate on the votes of the Ministries of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, and Environment, emphasizing that these subjects are sensitive and central to building humane, responsible citizens who respect others and the environment. He noted that allegations had been raised in the debate and referred to recent controversy over Opposition comments on Muslim law, saying public and social media criticism had questioned the silence of Muslim representatives.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka to speak, informing him that he had been allotted 15 minutes. The intervention was procedural and did not contain substantive policy remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilleka said the Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs has a major responsibility to protect the Buddha Sasana, promote moral and spiritual values, and uphold religious freedom, particularly amid concerns about declining discipline and ethical conduct. He highlighted challenges facing temples, including shortages of monks, disused temples, economic pressures on devotees, and the need to strengthen pirivena education and provide young monks with opportunities to study English and other international languages for global Dhamma propagation. He also drew attention to the scale of Buddhist Dhamma schools and the difficulties faced by monks and teachers in sustaining them.
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilleka concluded his remarks by expressing support for the Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, noting the Minister’s connection to the Giniduma region. He urged the Minister to work towards a religious revival in response to what he described as moral decline in the country, and thanked the Chair for the opportunity to speak.
Religion & Culture Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Asoka Sapumal Ranwala to speak and informed him that he had been allotted seven minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Asoka Sapumal Ranwala JJB
AI summary Hon. Asoka Sapumal Ranwala said the Ministry of Environment has a distinct mandate to protect and manage Sri Lanka’s natural resources for present and future generations. He noted that 12 environment-related institutions have been consolidated under the Ministry, ending prior fragmentation and enabling more coordinated regulation and conservation. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s unique environmental features, including its central highlands, monsoon systems, river networks, aquifers, coral reefs, climate gradients, and biodiversity, and said the Ministry is bringing environmental specialists together to support a more unified, results-oriented approach.
Environment Full speech → - The Hon. Asoka Sapumal Ranwala JJB
AI summary Hon. Asoka Sapumal Ranwala stated that the budget’s environmental allocations under political leadership now recognize distinct ecosystem needs. He expressed confidence that these measures could support national environmental renewal.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara rose on a point of order before the Deputy Chairperson. No substantive argument, proposal, or question is included in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara briefly responded to a prior speech by Hon. Ranwala, commending it. He then asked whether Ranwala held a doctoral degree in the relevant field and sought clarification when the answer appeared to be negative.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Hon. Deputy Chairperson ruled that the matter raised did not constitute a point of order.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara asked for clarification regarding the nature of a degree being referred to, specifically whether it was a doctoral degree.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana to speak next in the debate.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana JJB
AI summary Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana objected to a contribution as irrelevant or unnecessary and urged that Parliament’s time not be wasted.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana to speak and informed him that he had been allotted seven minutes. No substantive policy remarks or arguments were made in this intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana JJB
AI summary Hon. Asitha Niroshana Egoda Vithana emphasized Sri Lanka’s vulnerability to climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss and other environmental pressures, and argued that the Ministry of Environment has a central responsibility to protect ecosystems for future generations. He said the Government has consolidated key environmental, wildlife, coastal, forestry and related institutions under one Ministry and established ten committees with experts and activists to support coordinated decision-making. He stated that Ministry officers will inspect proposed development sites before Environmental Impact Assessments are finalized, and called for a new national forest survey, noting disputed forest-cover figures and low forest cover in districts such as Gampaha and Colombo.
Environment Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Jagath Manuwarna to speak and informed him that he had been allotted seven minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Jagath Manuwarna JJB
AI summary Hon. Jagath Manuwarna rejected allegations linking the JVP to violence during the 1983 July riots, arguing that false claims were being used to undermine the Government’s mandate and recalling the riots’ damaging impact on Sri Lankan cinema. He said many cinemas and cultural venues, including in Kandy and rural electorates such as Hewaheta, have closed, limiting public access to film, theatre and music. He proposed reviving cinema through discussions on a cinema academy, possible Indian assistance for an internationally reputed theatre, islandwide tours for selected drama festival productions, and development of village cultural centres to secure cultural rights.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ms. Kaushalya Ariyarathne JJB
AI summary The speech content provided contains only the opening address to the Deputy Chairperson and no substantive remarks. No policy position, proposal, question, or demand can be identified from the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Kaushalya Ariyarathne to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ms. Kaushalya Ariyarathne JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ms. Kaushalya Ariyarathne objected to a point of Order raised earlier by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, stating that it was erroneous and violated Standing Orders 91(c) and (e). She protested what she described as misuse of parliamentary procedure and conduct by some Opposition Members that undermined parliamentary traditions and wasted the House’s time.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Anton Jayakody - Deputy Minister of Environment JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody said the Government had consolidated environment-related institutions under the Environment Ministry and aimed to align environmental protection with the economy in line with Sustainable Development Goals. He said the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau would be reformed to prevent political interference, publish geo-mapped licence information, revise mineral pricing, strengthen royalty collection, and curb illegal mining. He also announced Water Resources Board programmes to protect groundwater, aquifers and springs, beginning in Badulla District, citing increased evapotranspiration and water loss.
- The Hon. Anton Jayakody JJB
AI summary Hon. Anton Jayakody argued that economic planning should be linked with environmental policy, citing demand for Sri Lankan Albizia timber used for cricket bats in South Asia. He referred to the Budget allocation of Rs. 1,000 million for Forest Department reforestation, including Rs. 400 million for timber plantations, and proposed promoting Albizia planting around estates to ensure future supply and market continuity.
- The Hon. Anton Jayakody JJB
AI summary Anton Jayakody said the Budget represents the Government’s policy framework and urged the Opposition to contribute constructively to advancing it. He noted that environmental issues concern all sectors of society and expressed disappointment that the Opposition had not offered more substantive critique.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Rohana Bandara
AI summary Rohana Bandara criticized the Government for calling Provincial Council elections during the Budget Committee Stage, arguing that it disrupted MPs’ ability to participate fully in debates and undermined calls for substantive scrutiny. He urged greater state attention to under-resourced rural temples while supporting dignity for all religious observances, and opposed creating a separate “Sri Lankan Day,” saying Independence Day should remain the main unifying national event. On environmental matters, he questioned appointments to mineral resource institutions, alleged revenue losses and corruption, and demanded implementation of producer responsibility requirements for plastic recycling. He also raised concerns about imported waste, container releases, damage to ecosystems and endemic fish, and called for stronger waste management after the local elections.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Rohana Bandara
AI summary Rohana Bandara alleged that no CCTV cameras are functioning in Anuradhapura and criticized the removal of police barriers without adequate security measures. He argued that such actions have emboldened organized crime amid reports of frequent murders, and urged the Government to move beyond slogans and implement practical security solutions.
- The Hon. Anton Jayakody JJB
AI summary The Hon. Anton Jayakody stated that the GSMB officer in question had been reinstated by Ranil Wickremesinghe shortly before an election while under interdiction. He said an inquiry is being conducted under the Ministry Secretary and that further action would be taken based on its findings.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake NDF
AI summary Chamara Sampath Dasanayake said the Clean Sri Lanka programme appeared to have stalled and urged the Government to implement it through strengthened local authorities rather than using the military, prison inmates, or one-off publicity activities. He criticised delays in environmental approvals and called on the Environment Ministry and related agencies, including the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, to act more efficiently and support lawful livelihoods such as sand and gravel transport. He also accused Government figures of making inaccurate or diversionary public claims, citing remarks about school attendance, Mahinda Rajapaksa’s residence, and the renewed focus on “Batalanda.”
- Hon. Chamara Sampath Dassanayake NDF
AI summary Hon. Chamara Sampath Dassanayake raised delays in issuing GSMB quarrying permits and environmental clearances, citing problems in areas such as Ampara and arguing that decentralised offices have not necessarily delivered faster services. He urged the Government to reduce unnecessary documentation, expedite permits, and improve administrative efficiency rather than continue blaming previous governments. He also criticised the Government’s failure to amend local government laws despite its parliamentary majority, warning that fragmented local council results could make councils unstable and calling on the Government to show tangible results before seeking further local authority control.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi - Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs JJB
AI summary The Minister outlined the broad remit of the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs and highlighted Budget provision for artist and media professional housing, including 108 units within the Chinese-assisted Kottawa housing project. He cited the distribution of donated Saudi dates to 2,700 mosques, the National Maha Shivaratri event in Ratnapura, and Hajj arrangements, including efforts to reduce the Rs. 2.1 million recommended fee and improve pilgrim services. He emphasized religious and ethnic harmony, rejected abusive conduct in Parliament, and said the Ministry is planning further 2025 initiatives such as an International Performing Arts Centre, Artists’ Academy, multicultural centre network, and an institute for spiritual and philosophical studies.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi concluded the Committee Stage debate on his Ministry’s Budget Heads by outlining plans to establish institutions including a National Film Conservation Archive, a Cinema School, an International Theatre School, and an International Visual Arts Centre. He thanked Members, parliamentary officials, and Ministry staff for their contributions and stated the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the Government’s broader aspirations for national prosperity and improved living standards.
Religion & Culture Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara rejected remarks made in his absence by Hon. Kaushalya Ariyaratne that he had lowered the dignity of Parliament. He said he had only questioned Hon. Ranil, who was in the Chair at the time, about an unsubstantiated claim to a doctoral degree, and denied misusing the House or referring to Standing Orders. He also referenced vote totals from Gampaha for Hon. Ranil and the NPP in the last election.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara clarified that his query concerned the claim of a doctoral degree, framing it as an issue related to the dignity of the country and the people of Gampaha. He asked that his remarks not be misunderstood.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law - Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary Sunil Watagala rose to raise a Point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or policy issue was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Watagala supported Hon. Kaushalya Ariyaratne’s objection that Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara’s intervention was not a valid Point of Order. He argued that Jayasekara, as a senior MP, had used the procedure to gain an unfair political advantage and should not be allowed to do so under the guise of a Point of Order.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara asked the Presiding Member to clarify under which Standing Order a Point of Order was being raised. The intervention was procedural, seeking identification of the relevant parliamentary rule governing the matter.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. (Dr.) Dammika Patabendi - Minister of Environment JJB
AI summary The Minister responded to issues raised during the Committee Stage debate on the Environment Ministry’s expenditure, stating that the Forest Conservation Department is already taking steps to identify and resolve disputes over tanks and paddy lands in Batticaloa, with a view to applying solutions island-wide. He reported the shooting death of the tusker “Unicorn” in Minneriya National Park and said a full investigation is under way, while outlining planned measures and allocations to address the human-elephant conflict, including wildlife funding, water retention systems, grassland development and research. He said plastics are currently regulated under the National Environmental Act, single-use plastics are banned, and amendments are being pursued to introduce Extended Producer Responsibility. He also stated that the absorption of 3,530 Multi-Purpose Development Task Force workers has been submitted to the Public Service Commission and appointments will be issued once approval is received.
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