Sitting of Wednesday, 19 March 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 1748499233099643 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
Order of business
Speeches load per item. Summaries shown here are AI-generated and labelled; verbatim text is on each speech page.
- 1 Opening Parliament Opening and Speaker's Announcements 1 speeches
- 2 Papers Tabling of Annual Reports 2 speeches
- 3 Petitions Presentation of Petitions 3 speeches
- 4 Oral question Oral Question: Saumyamoorthi Thondaman Memorial Foundation (Q.1/2025) 6 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Question: Anti-Elephant Electric Fencing (Q.2/2025) 6 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Question: Government Sports Complexes (Q.3/2025) 6 speeches
- 7 Oral question Oral Question: Question No. 4 - 514/2025 (Stand Down) 3 speeches
- 8 Oral question Oral Question: Question No. 5 - 517/2025 (Stand Down) 3 speeches
- 9 Procedural Ministerial Motions: Standing Order Amendments (SO 112-129) 15 speeches
- 10 Debate Committee of Supply: Appropriation Bill 2025 - Head 116 and Related Heads (Trade, Commerce, Food Security) 160 speeches
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Mujibur Rahman SJB
AI summary Moved a token cut under the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development and urged investigations into alleged corruption, particularly in Sathosa, citing past complaints to CIABOC and the CID and specific concerns over a December 2024 rice procurement tender, the Acting CEO’s dual role, and the transfer of an official who alerted auditors. He criticised the Government for not fulfilling campaign pledges to remove VAT on essential goods and the fuel levy, and argued that rice import duties, controlled price increases, and rising milk powder and consumer prices had worsened the cost of living. Citing national and Colombo consumer price data and Health Ministry nutrition indicators, he said households were cutting food consumption because essential non-food costs could not be reduced, and called for VAT removal and price reductions on essentials.
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Requested the Chair to grant another Member an additional three minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahman SJB
AI summary Hon. Mujibur Rahman urged the Ministry Secretary to intervene in unresolved issues and warned that public officials are accountable for inaction, citing judicial precedents from matters involving the Ministry under Keheliya Rambukwella. He also objected to broad allegations made by the Leader of the House against “Muslim MPs,” calling for any accusation to identify the specific Member concerned rather than generalising against all Muslim parliamentarians.
- The Hon. Ananda Wijepala JJB
AI summary Ananda Wijepala informed Parliament of developments in the investigation into the 31 December 2023 shooting incident at the WIS tourist hotel in the Weligama Police Division, involving six suspects including SDIG Deshabandu Tennakoon. He said the CID had sought asset confiscation before the Matara Magistrate’s Court, Tennakoon had surrendered to court, and a search of his Hokandara residence had resulted in the seizure of liquor, wine, a firearm, and two Apple mobile phones. He stated that further submissions had been made to court and investigations were continuing due to public interest in the matter.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe responded to issues raised during the Committee Stage debate, outlining reforms across institutions under the Trade Ministry, especially Lak Sathosa, including closing or relocating loss-making outlets, opening 150 new shops based on surveys, recruiting staff transparently, investigating past malpractices, and enforcing supplier quality controls. He said the Government retained the rice import duty imposed by the previous administration to balance farmer protection and consumer interests, and cited price reductions at Sathosa compared with March 2024. He also highlighted savings from revised STC ammonium nitrate procurement, a 50 per cent increase in the Mahapola scholarship from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,500, and the need to address the status of SLIIT in relation to Mahapola land and prior Cabinet decisions.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa informed the Chair that he intended to speak for 15 minutes and that the time had been allocated under Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka. No substantive policy issue or argument was raised in this brief procedural statement.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- Mr. Deputy Speaker (Dr. Rizvie Salih)
AI summary Mr. Deputy Speaker (Dr. Rizvie Salih) took the Chair after the Hon. Speaker left the Chair at 11.10 a.m. No substantive speech or policy statement was made.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa argued that the Ministry must strengthen consumer protection, trade promotion, food security policy, and support for MSMEs through better laws, enforcement, market access, infrastructure, innovation, and public–private collaboration. He questioned whether the official poverty line reflects current living costs, criticized the Aswesuma beneficiary selection process as insufficiently evidence-based, and called for a fairer, data-driven approach. He urged durable debt resolution and rehabilitation for MSMEs affected by recent economic shocks, rather than only suspending parate execution. He also asked the Government to clarify its trade policy and negotiating capacity, proposed a Sri Lanka Trade Representative mechanism, and called for strategies to retain EU GSP Plus and restore US GSP access while also considering broader well-being indicators such as Gross National Happiness.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister clarified that the lapse of the US GSP on 31 December 2020 affected all beneficiary countries and has not been renewed by the US Congress. He said Sri Lanka plans joint discussions with the United States in September, including on apparel sector issues, and welcomed constructive Opposition support. He added that the Government is reviewing existing trade agreements and exploring new arrangements, including with Vietnam and Iran, with the aim of using trade policy to reduce prices and ensure supply.
- The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary The Leader of the Opposition urged the Government to pursue country-specific trade arrangements despite the general lapse of GSP benefits, citing the Multi-Fibre Arrangement concessions linked to the “200 Garment Factories Programme” as precedent. He proposed establishing a specialised Sri Lanka Trade Representative and team to conduct government-to-government negotiations, and offered his side’s expertise on a pro bono basis.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister stated that the Government would consider the proposal but preferred to build domestic institutional capacity through coordination among the Department of Commerce, the Ministry, the Treasury, and the Foreign Ministry rather than hiring paid foreign consultants. He noted that discussions with the United States, Sri Lanka’s largest single export market, had already been initiated for September, and said Parliament would be kept informed while welcoming cross-party support.
- The Hon. (Prof.) L.M. Abeywickrama JJB
AI summary Hon. (Prof.) L.M. Abeywickrama said Sri Lanka had often failed to gain sufficient benefits from trade agreements due to weak negotiation capacity and a lack of domain expertise, including in relation to WTO and TRIPS opportunities. He highlighted the need to protect and promote local products through Geographical Indications and trademarks, noting the recent GI recognition for Ceylon Cinnamon and consideration of accession to the Madrid Protocol. He also stated that budget allocations had been made to strengthen the Intellectual Property Office, the Sri Lanka Standards Institution, and standards and accreditation laboratories to improve product safety, consumer confidence, and market access.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan ITAK
AI summary Sivagnanam Shritharan argued during the Committee Stage debate on Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development that Sri Lanka lacks adequate domestic food standards, export facilitation systems, and implementation of food safety protocols. He said policy remains too focused on imports rather than ensuring safe and nutritious food throughout the production-to-consumption chain. He also raised concern that closed paddy storage warehouses and control of rice distribution by “mafias” are undermining food security and fair returns.
- Hon. Sivasakthy Ananthan
AI summary Hon. Sivasakthy Ananthan argued that rice imports during harvest periods, particularly in the North and East, depress paddy prices and enable traders to exploit farmers, while inadequate storage facilities worsen food security and distribution. He called for stronger financial and institutional support for cooperative societies, including approval of long-pending fuel station licences and funding to purchase and mill paddy, citing examples from Kilinochchi and Jaffna. He said cooperatives had played a critical role during wartime embargoes but have since been politicized and under-supported, and referred to earlier unimplemented proposals such as a Northern cooperative plan and a Palmyrah Fund. He also briefly raised reports on the Pattalanthe torture camp and past abuses during 1988–1989.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary Mr. Chairman called the next speaker, Hon. Wijesiri Basnayake, and informed him that he had nine minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. Wijesiri Basnayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Wijesiri Basnayake said the cooperative sector, under the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, has extensive membership, assets and outlets but is weakened by losses, poor management and corruption. He contrasted Sri Lanka’s cooperatives with successful international models such as India’s Amul and New Zealand’s Fonterra, arguing that cooperatives could support a production-based economy if properly governed. He called for the Ministry, the Department of Cooperative Development, the Cooperative Employees Commission and NICD Polgolla to prepare a strategic plan to revive the sector, and invited Opposition MPs to support the effort.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair called on Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana to speak and allotted him 20 minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana NDF
AI summary Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana, speaking during the debate on the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development’s expenditure, urged the Government to reduce taxes and prevent the announced increase in milk powder prices, particularly ahead of Ramadan and the Sinhala-Hindu New Year. He argued that high prices of rice, coconuts and other essentials were worsening living conditions, and called for Sathosa and cooperative networks to be expanded so lower prices reach rural consumers. He also raised concerns about alcohol price increases encouraging illicit liquor, asked for legal action against corruption without exception, and urged the Government to handle graduate job protests and recent law-and-order incidents democratically and firmly.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair suspended the sitting for lunch until 1.00 p.m. The sitting later resumed with the Deputy Chairperson of Committees, Hon. Hemali Weerasekara, presiding.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Fasmin Sharif to speak and informed him that he had nine minutes allotted.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. Fasmin Sharif JJB
AI summary Hon. Fasmin Sharif argued that Sri Lanka should expand and add value to export crops and highland produce, including cinnamon, clove, coffee, tea, jackfruit, durian, guava and rambutan, by allocating suitable state and private lands to cultivators and supporting value-added processing. He criticized previous government decisions that he said caused losses at Lanka Sathosa, including high-rent premises and unresolved supply issues, and called for a commission and audit of Sathosa outlets. He also claimed the previous government’s areca nut imports harmed local growers, said the current government had halted such imports, and demanded that Hon. Archuna apologize and withdraw remarks he described as false and prejudicial toward Muslim marriages.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. Thilanka U. Gamage was recognized to speak and allotted seven minutes by the Deputy Chairperson.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. Thilanka U. Gamage JJB
AI summary Hon. Thilanka U. Gamage defended the Government’s performance under the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, arguing that it had halted corruption and was rebuilding institutions weakened or mismanaged under previous administrations. He said the Government was reviving the CWE, strengthening Lanka Sathosa by recruiting staff and expanding outlets, increasing the Consumer Affairs Authority cadre, and intervening to restore confidence in the cooperative sector. He also referred to measures on food security, alleged past misuse of the Mahapola Scholarship Trust, and a proposal to raise university student stipends from Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 7,500.
- Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha questioned the Government’s proposed Rs. 1 billion allocation for essential food relief packs during the Sinhala and Hindu New Year season. He asked for clarification on the intended beneficiaries, including whether the relief would go to Aswesuma recipients, workers, office staff, or the wider public.
- Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe clarified that the Government will provide a relief goods pack to over 800,000 applicants awaiting Aswesuma assessment, offering items worth over Rs. 5,000 for Rs. 2,500. He stated that Cabinet had increased the allocation from Rs. 1,000 million to Rs. 1,500 million on the Food Security Committee’s request, with the Finance Minister to present the amendment, and that Lanka Sathosa had completed supplier and tender arrangements pending a Treasury advance.
- Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha questioned the allocation for a Rs. 2,500 subsidy, stating that Rs. 1.5 billion would cover about 600,000 packs rather than the expected 800,000. He highlighted a possible shortfall in the subsidy provision and implied the need for clarification on the funding calculation.
Public Finance Full speech → - Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that the matter raised would also be resolved.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha stated that a Rs. 5,000 provision would only cover basic food items such as 2 kilograms of rice, sugar, dhal, potatoes, and dried fish. His remark questioned the adequacy of that amount for household needs in the relevant policy or relief context.
Cost of Living Full speech → - Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe tabled details of proposed essential food packs, outlining three variants containing combinations of rice, flour and other staples. He stated that a standard pack would weigh about 15–17 kg and include items such as Nadu rice, onions, potatoes, dhal, salmon, sugar, wheat flour, Samaposha and soya meat. He said Sathosa would sell the packs at cost while absorbing Rs. 751 from its margin, with the Government covering about Rs. 1,800 per pack from a Rs. 1,500 million allocation, enabling distribution of around 833,000 packs.
Cost of Living Full speech → - Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha urged the Government to extend Budget relief beyond Aswesuma beneficiaries by reducing VAT on essential goods as promised, and criticised its handling of the rice market, including delayed imports, retention of import duties during shortages, and price controls that he said benefited large millers. He called for stronger state market intervention through institutions such as Sathosa, Lak Sathosa and the STC, and asked the Government to present concrete three- and six-month progress reports on its economic programme. He also rejected allegations made against Hon. Sajith Premadasa regarding cement privatization, questioned the presentation and funding of investment zones such as Bingiriya, and predicted strong Samagi Jana Balawegaya performance in upcoming local government bodies.
- Hon. S. Sri Bachanandaraja
AI summary Hon. S. Sri Bachanandaraja called for the revival of the cooperative sector in Jaffna District, citing decline due to politicization, mismanagement, maladministration, and unqualified appointments. He requested reopening the Cooperative Training College at Poontottam, resolving encroachment on land allocated in Kurunagar, strengthening the Consumer Affairs Authority, and providing financial or concessionary loan support to restore non-functional cooperative societies. He also urged that Northern Province economic centres be made operational, the Jaffna City Market be rebuilt with support from the Chamber of Commerce and diaspora organizations, and a dedicated jetty be provided to supply Jaffna’s island communities.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson recognized Hon. Ajith Gihan to speak and informed him that he had eight minutes allocated.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith Gihan JJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith Gihan said the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development has a central responsibility to ensure continuous, safe food supply at fair prices, in line with the NPP policy programme. He argued that institutions such as Sathosa and the cooperative sector had been weakened by losses, fraud and mismanagement under previous administrations, citing Sathosa’s Rs. 2 billion losses, 66 disputed transactions, and examples from Puttalam, Arachchikattuwa and Wennappuwa. He said the Government would rebuild and regulate Sathosa and cooperatives, use initiatives such as “G 88000” to deliver relief, organize supply chains including fisheries, investigate wrongdoing, and hold those responsible accountable.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka was recognized to speak and informed that he had 19 minutes allotted for his remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka wished Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe success and then questioned the Government’s paddy purchasing programme. He asked how many metric tons of paddy had been purchased so far from the Rs. 5 billion allocation, noting that this amount would cover only about four and a half days of national paddy requirements, and requested a direct answer from the Minister.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Rs. 5 billion had been allocated to the Paddy Marketing Board, which does not fall under the speaker’s Ministry. He stated that he would obtain the relevant details and provide them later.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka questioned the Minister’s handling of rice price controls, arguing that the Government’s claim about lacking paddy or rice stocks did not justify continued price increases and that coordination with the PMB and Sathosa was required. Citing Department of Census and Statistics weekly price data, he compared late 2023/early 2024 prices with late 2024/early 2025 prices and said Red Nadu, White Kekulu, and Red Kekulu had risen substantially since the current Government took office. He asked how prices could be controlled with only Rs. 5 billion allocated for paddy procurement and alleged that actual procurement covered only a very small share of national rice needs, while some varieties were already being sold above controlled prices.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe said rice supply remains strained because government stocks were empty when the administration took office and the Maha harvest is now expected to fall from 2.98 million to about 2.4 million metric tonnes due to weather and floods. He stated that although the Government’s policy is not to import rice except in a natural calamity or disaster, imports may be required if shortages affect the market, while prices will be kept within controlled levels. He outlined measures to stabilize the market, including State bank loan facilities of Rs. 10 billion for small and medium millers and Rs. 15 billion, potentially rising to Rs. 45 billion, for large millers, alongside government purchasing of paddy as harvesting begins in major producing districts.
- The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka questioned the Minister on rice price controls, noting that varieties such as Keeri Samba were being sold above the controlled price and warning that similar increases had preceded wider price spikes. He argued that household rice expenditure from October to January had risen by about Rs. 16 billion compared with the previous year, placing an additional burden on the public. He also asked whether, during an estimated 70,000 MT shortfall, the Indian High Commission had proposed a Government-to-Government rice supply arrangement and whether the Government had imposed conditions on it.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that reports of conditions being imposed were incorrect. He said discussions had been held with the Indian High Commission, including the High Commissioner and trade attaché, and clarified that no conditions had been set by their side.
Foreign Affairs Full speech → - The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka questioned the Government’s rice import process, citing media reports of credit terms, inspection requirements, and four failed tenders. He argued that imports made at an exchange rate of Rs. 292 still resulted in higher retail rice prices than in 2023 when the dollar was Rs. 320, causing losses to consumers. He also alleged that the President’s decision to raise millers’ margins by Rs. 10 per kilogram for 100 days gave millers Rs. 6.5 billion in additional profit at the public’s expense.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. Nimal Palihena was recognized by the Deputy Chairperson and allotted eight minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Nimal Palihena JJB
AI summary Hon. Nimal Palihena supported the 2025 Budget allocation for cooperative sector development and argued that cooperatives, serving around 8 million people, should be strengthened as everyday service institutions rather than only crisis-response mechanisms. He called for government intervention, through education and qualified appointments, to address fraud, corruption, and ad-hoc governance in cooperative societies, with the National Institute of Cooperative Development expanding training in management, finance, audit, services, and ICT. He raised concerns about entities such as “Saubhagya” and “RCD Co-op Bank” soliciting deposits under the guise of cooperatives, posing risks to depositors. He also said the Registrar of Companies should guide more registered companies toward CSE listing and improve eROC systems to widen safe investment options and help businesses raise equity capital.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson recognizes Hon. S.M. Marikkar and allocates him 19 minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. S.M. Marikkar SJB
AI summary Hon. S.M. Marikkar questioned the Government’s failure to deliver promised VAT relief on food, education and health, arguing that food prices have not fallen six months after the President assumed office. He demanded action to recover over Rs. 6 billion in alleged unpaid VAT and SSCL on imported crude coconut oil refined and sold locally, citing replies from the Prime Minister, the Inland Revenue Department and Fiscal Policy Department, and asked what steps would be taken against three companies allegedly involved. He also raised concerns over paddy storage losses, burnt warehouses and the Government’s dependence on private rice millers, calling for measures to curb the “rice mafia” while protecting both farmers and consumers.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe addressed allegations or concerns regarding taxes on coconut oil imports, citing Customs data over four months across several HS codes with a total customs value of about Rs. 36.6 billion. He stated that import duties are collected at entry and VAT applies when refined products are sold domestically, and said the issue has also been referred to Plantation Industries due to food security concerns linked to imports equivalent to about 200 million coconuts. He invited details of any company alleged to have committed fraud, noting that the Prime Minister has referred the matter to relevant agencies and that investigations are proceeding.
- The Hon. S.M. Marikkar SJB
AI summary Hon. S.M. Marikkar said his objective was to prevent fraud and noted that, regardless of differing figures, VAT on refined domestic sales should be paid in addition to import levies. He requested the Minister to obtain the relevant details from the Inland Revenue Department, stating that the companies and quantities had been recorded in Hansard.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. R.M. Jayawardhana, Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security, to speak and informed him that he had 19 minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. R.M. Jayawardhana - Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister said the Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Food Security has consolidated 17 institutions to improve food security, market access and daily consumer welfare, while correcting past misuse of public resources. He alleged widespread irregularities in cooperatives, Lanka Sathosa, Economic Centres, Mahapola, STC and related entities, citing uncollected cooperative loans, missing audit files, undervalued asset sales, loss-making rental arrangements, unusable imported rice-milling machines and missing public funds. He stated that investigations are under way and that the Ministry will standardize governance and refocus institutions on their intended functions, including fair prices for farmers and consumers and support for vulnerable students.
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri criticized the Government for failing to deliver promised relief and anti-corruption action, particularly on rice prices and alleged frauds, despite pledges to end market manipulation quickly. He urged the Minister to arrest at least one person accused in corruption files, arguing that public expectations to punish “thieves” remain unmet. He also called for further reductions in rice and fuel prices and for savings from government cost-cutting to be directed to poor households.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. Sunil Biyanwila was recognized to speak and allotted eight minutes. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or argument was presented in this procedural intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Biyanwila JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Biyanwila defended the Government’s conduct and budget priorities under the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development, stating that Government MPs had not sought personal privileges and that tax revenue, including the Rs. 65 rice tax, would be directed to public services such as health and education. He argued that market prices for key commodities were declining, public sector salary increases would support economic growth, and the Government had begun strengthening paddy procurement through warehouse preparation, funding, farmer support, and cultivation of fallow lands. He also said the Government intended to depoliticize and rebuild the cooperative sector and Sathosa, including transforming cooperatives beyond retail functions into production-oriented institutions linked to grassroots communities and local products.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Ravi Karunanayake to address the House and informed him that he had 22 minutes for his speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF
AI summary Hon. Ravi Karunanayake urged reforms to company registration and SME incorporation, proposing a reduced Rs. 10,000 fee and rapid online registration for companies with paid-up capital under Rs. 500,000 to improve access to credit and growth. He called for the Consumer Affairs Authority under Act No. 9 of 2003 to be digitized and reoriented toward effective consumer protection, including action on monopolistic or oligopolistic pricing in essential sectors. He also discussed the Mahapola Trust Fund and SLIIT issues, stating that any dues to Mahapola should be examined, and advocated stronger national branding, export expansion, and pragmatic use of open-economy policies. He supported the President’s USD 36 billion export target by 2030, stressing the need for FTAs with countries such as India, Singapore, Thailand and China to build market access and reduce external risks.
- The Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj - Presiding Member JJB
AI summary The Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj assumed the Chair as Presiding Member during the sitting.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Faiszer Musthapha, PC NDF
AI summary Faiszer Musthapha argued that attracting FDI and developing industry require incentives such as industrial zones, particularly in the context of Sri Lanka’s FTA with India and high energy and labour costs. He said investor confidence depends on faster and more effective commercial dispute resolution, calling for amendments to the Arbitration Act to allow interim relief and to exclude low-value lease or hire-purchase disputes from mandatory arbitration. He also urged coordination with the Minister of Justice to fill more than 15 vacant High Court posts, warning that judicial delays and understaffing undermine investment promotion.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister JJB
AI summary The Minister stated that he would convey the Hon. Member’s message to the Minister of Justice and National Integration.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Faiszer Musthapha, PC NDF
AI summary Faiszer Musthapha expressed gratitude and thanked the House.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath urged the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development to strengthen food security and cooperative institutions in Batticaloa, citing pressures from past shortages, current price increases, and limited access to fair-priced goods. He requested approval for fuel allocations to cooperative-run stations in Vavunathivu, Vakarai, and Valachchenai, increased funding and lending capacity for cooperatives through Provincial Councils, and investment support for dryers, warehouses, and rice mills. He also called for more Sathosa outlets in Batticaloa, noting only three serve a district of about 600,000 people, and asked that shortages of Cooperative Development Officers and delays in permanent appointments be addressed.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister JJB
AI summary Plans are underway to establish 150 new Sathosa outlets this year and expand the network from about 450 to 1,000 outlets within three years, including through large, medium, regular and franchise-type small outlets where viable. The Minister also said recruitment and training will resume for the Department of Co-operative Development, which had previously been earmarked for closure, with efforts to strengthen cooperative banks and consumer societies and integrate them into the national retail network while safeguarding depositors.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath thanked the Minister for the response and expressed hope that the Government would address issues affecting people in the North and East.
Ethnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri defended the Government’s record under the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development, rejecting Opposition allegations on corruption, milk powder prices and rice or paddy interests. He said the Government had improved MILCO by increasing payments to dairy farmers, restoring employee benefits, settling part of its bank debt and pursuing fresh milk self-sufficiency. He alleged past irregularities in Sathosa, Ministry premises works and cooperative purchases, tabling an investigation report on the “Umangdawa Green Hut” premises and citing specific procurement and rent-payment concerns. He urged the Opposition to abandon what he described as old political practices and accept the new Government’s approach.
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Urged the rapid revival of village-level cooperative programmes, citing earlier models under J.R. Jayewardene and Ranasinghe Premadasa, and called for collapsed rural cooperatives to be rehabilitated. He also proposed integrating fisheries cooperatives, including those now under Provincial Councils, into a national framework with rural fisheries organizations. He raised concerns about the Weeraketiya Multi-purpose Cooperative Society election held on 16 March 2025 despite Election Commission-related correspondence advising postponement during the local authority election period, and requested an inquiry and compliance with election guidance.
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi objected to conduct he described as wrongful and unbecoming, referring specifically to actions by individuals in Weeraketiya. He urged Hon. Aravinda Senarath to restrain or address those associates and called for order during his remarks.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Aravinda Senarath asserted that the actions under discussion were lawful and not illegal. He responded to another Member by emphasizing that they were carried out under existing law.
Law & Order Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi questioned the legal basis for the matter under discussion, asking where such a provision exists in law. The intervention was a brief procedural challenge seeking clarification on the statutory authority for the action or claim being made.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Aravinda Senarath informed Parliament that the official election of the Weeraketiya Multipurpose Cooperative Society was held in February. No further details, proposals, or questions were included in the recorded statement.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi stated that the Weeraketiya Cooperative election was held on 16 March, disputing a contrary claim by another Member. He said the Election Commission and the Hambantota Election Office were involved, and tabled letters, photographs, and related documents as evidence of how the voting was conducted.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that the General Meeting was held on 16 March. He informed Parliament that the relevant document had been placed in the Library.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi disputed the characterization of an event as a General Meeting, stating that it was instead an election. He said he had photographs demonstrating how votes were cast.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe clarified the date of a General Meeting, stating that it was held on March 16.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi informed the Minister that a General Meeting could not be held, adding to the procedural issue under discussion.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Aravinda Senarath briefly sought clarification on whether “the 16th” referred to the day before yesterday, indicating a procedural or factual check during the debate.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi alleged that the Election Commission and the National People's Power violated election-related rules in the Hambantota District, including by holding activities despite letters from the Commission stating that even a general meeting could not be held. He said he had previously raised concerns about nine principals being named as suspects during the General Election but no action had been taken. He tabled related files, photographs, and Election Commission letters, and requested an investigation.
- The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Hon. Aravinda Senarath stated that the general meeting took place on the 16th and that the official election had been held in January.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi stated that the official election was held on 16 March. No further argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the provided speech excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Aravinda Senarath stated that the General Meeting was held on 16 March.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi disputed the claim that a General Meeting had been held, while asserting that records and photographs exist documenting the election process and the selection of five members. He asked the Minister to examine the evidence, including voting details, and noted that those addressed had also participated in the election.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that while a general meeting could be held, an election could not be conducted. He characterized the opposing party’s response as agitation rather than a procedural basis for holding an election.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi objected to a characterization of a recent gathering, stating that it was an election rather than a General Meeting. He noted that MP Aravinda Senarath had participated in the event and appeared to dispute the manner in which it was being described.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that, under Election Commission instructions, a general meeting may be held but an election may not. He noted that the relevant election had already been held in February.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi alleged that a cooperative election was postponed and then suddenly held without written approval from the Election Commissioner, leaving his side unprepared. He claimed that government-aligned candidates won several cooperatives, including Agunukolapelessa and Hungama, through improper conduct, and referred to photographs and records he had tabled as evidence.
- The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Aravinda Senarath briefly asserted that the claims being discussed were false and stated that both societies in question had been defeated. The remark appears to be a short interjection rather than a substantive policy argument or proposal.
Foreign Affairs Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi urged the Government to take stronger policy decisions on food security, arguing that poverty and rising prices for rice and coconuts make current living-cost estimates unrealistic. He said the state paddy storage mechanism had failed and requested a proper system to maintain rice reserves for emergencies such as a future pandemic or disaster. He also called for measures to address coconut shortages, including control of monkey populations affecting crops, and referred to the rising cost of basic items such as salt.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi raised concerns about the sharp decline in Hambantota Salterns’ salt production, citing figures falling from about 70,061 metric tons in 2022 to 26,736 metric tons in 2024. He asked the Minister to investigate the causes, alleging poor management, political appointments, procurement irregularities, and inadequate brine water management, while also noting rainfall impacts. He urged that salt be included in food security planning and that Hambantota Salterns, employing many permanent and temporary workers, be protected as a national asset.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi stated that he had been informed he could take an additional two minutes to continue his remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi raised a procedural point, stating that he had been told to speak and ask for time, and that 20 minutes had been allocated.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper stated that he would allocate two minutes of his speaking time to another Member.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi urged that the Hambantota Saltern be managed without political interference and through a proper programme, noting it as a national resource that generates revenue. He raised concern over a Rs. 50 increase in milk powder prices and called for an investigation into the decline in production and cattle numbers at the Ridiyagama NLDB Dairy Farm. He requested that officers be appointed to properly manage both the saltern and the dairy farm, suggesting that improved management of the farm could support a programme to provide milk to schoolchildren in Hambantota District.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi requested the Minister to implement a proper management programme for the Ridiyagama farm. He also indicated his intention to raise issues concerning Aswesuma beneficiaries and noted that he had been authorized by the Leader of the House to take the necessary speaking time.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Asked another Member to obtain the allocated speaking time before addressing the House.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi raised concerns about the selection process for Aswesuma welfare benefits, stating that many preselected beneficiaries are not poor. He said this has caused problems and implied the need for a review of beneficiary eligibility.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that the Aswesuma welfare benefit scheme is under review, including both past benefit allocations and new applications. He said beneficiaries will be reselected according to the relevant criteria and that the process is expected to be completed within the next few months.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi requested the Minister to establish a five-member selection committee of relevant state officers in each Grama Niladhari Division to identify poor households fairly. He said VAT reductions may lower prices generally, but relief schemes often fail to reach the poorest because benefits are distributed according to outdated lists. Referring to the proposed Sinhala and Hindu New Year package of goods worth Rs. 5,000 for Rs. 2,500, he urged that it be extended to all poor and vulnerable people during the current difficult period.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe briefly intervened to state that the matter being discussed was the other Member’s proposal. No substantive argument, demand, or policy position was presented in this remark.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi stated that he had nothing further to add.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that Aswesuma beneficiaries have already received increased allowances, while over 800,000 people who have applied for but are not receiving Aswesuma have received no support. He said the Government decided to provide relief specifically to that group.
Cost of Living Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi requested that relief measures be extended to those currently not receiving them and implemented through Divisional Secretary-level mechanisms. He also urged the Minister to ensure that cooperatives can continue providing services to poor and vulnerable communities.
Cost of Living Full speech → - The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Aravinda Senarath clarified that cooperative society elections in Hambantota District are conducted by the Department of Cooperative Development, not by the JVP, and said they were held before the election proclamation. He disputed claims that the SJB had won most cooperatives, stating that Malimawa won the Weeraketiya, Hungama, Nisssa and Walasmulla multipurpose cooperatives and all zonal offices of the Hambantota District Education Cooperative.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi briefly raised a matter by referring to the Election Commission. No substantive argument, proposal, or question is provided in the excerpt, so the specific issue or context cannot be determined.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi stated that, according to a letter, cooperative society elections should take place only after the Local Authorities election. He argued that, as a result, cooperative society elections and even related meetings cannot be held at present.
Law & Order Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe advised the Member to lodge a complaint with the Election Commission regarding the matter raised. The intervention was procedural and directed the issue to the relevant electoral authority.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi stated that he would raise allegations of corruption in Parliament rather than make a complaint to the relevant Commission. The remark was framed as a response to an accusation or challenge, asserting his intention to use the House as the forum for disclosure.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that such complaints cannot be presented to Parliament. The remark was procedural in nature, indicating a limitation on raising those matters in the chamber.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Dilip Wedaarachchi objected that allegations of corruption and theft affecting people in the Hambantota District must be raised in Parliament. He argued that if such matters cannot be presented there, the purpose of attending Parliament is undermined.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi briefly rejects an accusation that he was lying, insisting that he was not making a false statement. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or legislative matter is raised in the remark.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. R.G. Wijerathna JJB
AI summary Hon. R.G. Wijerathna argued that Regional Economic Centres have not met their stated objectives of ensuring fair producer prices, effective marketing, islandwide distribution, and affordable consumer prices. He cited inactive centres in Jaffna, Vavuniya and Kilinochchi built at significant public cost, and said the Nuwara Eliya centre handles only about 20 per cent of local vegetable production while traders, rather than farmers, effectively determine prices. He called for stronger inter-ministerial coordination to build a national distribution network, measures to reduce post-harvest losses through improved transport and packaging, and a Ministry-affiliated unit to oversee the transparency and use of management trust funds.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary M. Nizam Kariapper welcomed the Speaker’s ruling on the conduct of Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna, saying it upheld parliamentary dignity and expressing hope that the sanctions would lead to a change in conduct. He also referred to the former IGP’s surrender before court, arguing that all suspects should similarly be allowed to appear in court without obstruction rather than being arrested en route. Turning to the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, he urged the Minister to address technical problems at the Valachchenai Paper Mill, noting that the Estimates allocate funds for Hingurakgoda rice mill modernization but not for restoring full operations at Valachchenai.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Clarified that responsibility for the Valachchenai Paper Mill does not fall under his purview, but under the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper apologized and asked the House to note the connection between paddy cultivation and the paper mill industry, specifically the potential use of paddy straw for paper production. He requested that the matter be conveyed to the Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara raised concerns during the debate on the Ministry’s expenditure head about the legal authority of the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing to award certificates and diplomas under the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (Incorporation) Act No. 41 of 1980. He argued that the Act permits such qualifications only in collaboration with recognized universities and with University Grants Commission concurrence, and asked the Minister to conduct a legal review, regularize past qualifications if necessary, and coordinate with the Education Ministry and UGC to protect affected students and graduates.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that the matter raised would be brought to the attention of the relevant Minister, noting that it did not fall under his purview.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara raised concerns over tax treatment and pricing disparities between imported white sugar and local brown sugar, urging the Government to promote brown sugar through Sathosa, reduce sugar imports, and use molasses rather than maize for spirit production to avoid shortages affecting poultry feed and Thriposha. He called for coordinated action by relevant Ministries to legally import coconut husk/fibre to support coconut-based exports, criticizing inconsistent production data from the Coconut Research Institute and warning that export targets may be undermined. He also questioned shortages and alleged political interference in Sathosa management, staff transfers and appointments, and requested ministerial intervention.
- The Hon. Namal Karunaratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Namal Karunaratne’s intervention was limited to addressing the Deputy Chairperson and did not include any substantive argument, proposal, question, or reference to legislation, policy, or events.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara asked that the speaking time be taken from his allotted time, indicating a procedural intervention regarding the allocation of time in the debate. No substantive policy argument or proposal was made in the quoted speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Namal Karunaratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Namal Karunaratne rejected an allegation that he had said something would occur “within 24 hours,” calling it false. He objected to what he described as the spreading of gossip in Parliament.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara criticized the Government’s handling of paddy purchasing, arguing that despite promises to buy large quantities from the Maha and Yala harvests, only Rs. 5 billion had been allocated and only 488 metric tons had reportedly been purchased by the previous Friday. He alleged that numerous rice mills with substantial storage and processing capacity had been destroyed in past incidents, claiming these facilities could have supplied around 60% of the country’s rice requirement. He challenged government members to respond during their speaking time regarding responsibility for those incidents.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara referred to allegations about mills burned by the JVP and challenged the Minister to identify the individuals responsible. He stated that if the Minister could not name those who set the fires, the Minister should accept responsibility for the acts.
Law & Order Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilleka briefly requested the Presiding Member to grant Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara an additional two minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe disputed figures cited by Hon. Dayasiri regarding milling capacities of 0.5 million to 0.7 million metric tons, stating that such capacities do not exist in Sri Lanka. He argued that the claim was implausible in the context of the country’s total annual harvest of about 4.5 million metric tons and urged members not to present inaccurate figures.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara challenged claims regarding paddy storage, stating that while the Maha harvest was 4.6 million metric tons, storage capacity existed for two to three seasons and had been destroyed. He also questioned police action concerning the former IGP, alleging that despite visiting his house and seizing 800 bottles of whisky, police had failed to arrest him for 20 days. He further asked how police could rely on a reported consensus not to arrest six individuals, referring to statements made in the Court of Appeal and by police.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara questioned the police search of former IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon’s residence, stating that officers failed to locate him after three and a half hours and instead left with whisky bottles. He cited televised remarks by Sunil Watawala claiming knowledge of the whereabouts of Deshabandu Tennakoon and Sevwanthi, and asked who was responsible for concealing them.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Champika Hettiarachchi JJB
AI summary Hon. Champika Hettiarachchi defended the Government against Opposition claims based on 2019-2024 data, arguing that many problems in Sathosa and related institutions were inherited from previous administrations. He cited alleged past irregularities in leases, expenditure, and management, and said the Government had reversed a decision to close the Cooperative Wholesale Establishment, while planning wholesale hubs in Colombo, Matara and Kurunegala and enabling Sathosa and cooperatives to import directly. He outlined plans to buy 100,000 MT of paddy, revive mills and Sathosa services, relocate loss-making outlets, open about 150 new outlets, and digitize trade and asset systems using Budget allocations. He concluded that these reforms aim to make Sathosa and cooperative institutions competitive and profitable while supporting consumer price stability.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe defended reforms at Sathosa and other state institutions, saying the Government was bringing private-sector expertise into public bodies to strengthen them rather than sell them. He said Sathosa faced long-standing irregularities, including Rs. 350 million worth of goods unaccounted for since 2014, ongoing CID complaints, weak computer systems, and quality-control issues in rice procurement, and outlined steps such as filling 21 vacancies, appointing an acting CEO, and procuring an integrated stock and sales system. Responding to allegations on tax evasion and procurement, he said the Government would not protect offenders and was acting through the Consumer Affairs Authority, Inland Revenue Department and other agencies, citing VAT details of several companies named in the debate. He also said vehicles held by the Presidential Secretariat were being redistributed to institutions as required and rejected claims that appointments were based on union affiliation rather than merit.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister outlined measures to strengthen the co-operative sector, including reinforcing the Co-operative Insurance Company and clarifying that director appointments remain the responsibility of individual co-operatives based on shareholding. He said the Ministry, through the Registrar of Companies, aims to expand capital market participation by encouraging more sizeable companies to list on the stock exchange. He also announced legal reforms to enable Geographical Indications and plans to accede to the Madrid Protocol within the year to secure international protection for Sri Lankan products, arts, music, and inventions, while continuing efforts to strengthen Sathosa and the CWE.
- The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda SLPP
AI summary Asked the Minister what measures the Government intends to take to reduce the prices of goods.
Cost of Living Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister stated that prices of 40 essential items sold through Sathosa have been reduced by 20 per cent compared with the previous six months, and that a related document was tabled. He said the Government intends to continue reducing prices to provide relief, while noting that procurement has been constrained because the Co-operative Wholesale Establishment had been inactive and its lorry fleet had previously been sold as scrap.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister stated that the institution responsible for supplying goods to Sathosa had previously been closed and is now being restarted. He announced plans to establish three wholesale trading centres in Colombo, Matara and Kurunegala within the year.
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara’s contribution is limited to addressing the Presiding Member. No substantive argument, proposal, question, or policy matter is presented in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara sought a brief opportunity to address the House. No substantive policy point, proposal, or question is contained in the excerpt provided.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister noted that the allotted time for the proceedings had expired and indicated that it would need to be extended again.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara requested additional speaking time and asked that he be given the microphone to continue addressing the Minister. No substantive policy issue or proposal was raised in this excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister invited a Member to proceed quickly with a question, indicating that he was able to hear them. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or legislative matter was addressed in this brief intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara requested clarification from the Minister regarding the financial burden on co-operatives. He stated that co-operatives are facing a severe crisis due to paying 18 percent VAT in addition to payments to the relevant Department, and asked for the matter to be addressed.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister responded to a question on VAT and other taxes affecting domestic products, stating that the Government is considering these issues. He said the Co-operative Wholesale Establishment would be strengthened through supplier and government-to-government commercial agreements, including with India, Vietnam, and Thailand, to ensure continuous supply and forward procurement. He added that the Ministry aims to re-enter wholesale trade and oversee wholesale markets such as Peliyagoda and Polonnaruwa to provide goods at affordable prices.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Members agreed to insert the listed recurrent and capital expenditure allocations into the Schedule, including amended capital expenditure of Rs. 497 million and multiple allocations under Head 116. The Committee also approved expenditure heads for the Department of Commerce, Registrar of Companies, Measurement Units, Standards and Services, National Intellectual Property Office, Food Commissioner, and Co-operative Development, with each ordered to stand part of the Schedule.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe moved an amendment under Head 301, Programme 01 during the Committee Stage of the Appropriation Bill, 2025. The intervention was procedural and related to the consideration of budgetary allocations under that Head.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Parliament agreed to amend Head 301, Programme 01 by increasing the capital provision by Rs. 100,000,000 under Budget Proposal No. 53, setting recurrent expenditure at Rs. 88,000,000 and capital expenditure at Rs. 126,100,000. The amended allocations were approved and ordered to stand part of the Schedule. Allocations for Head 302, the Co-operative Employees Commission, were also approved, with Rs. 26,000,000 for recurrent expenditure and Rs. 900,000 for capital expenditure.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co-operative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister moved that the Committee report progress and seek leave to sit again. The motion was agreed to, and the Committee reported progress with proceedings scheduled to resume on Thursday, 20 March 2025.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech →
- 11 Procedural Report from Committee Stage 1 speeches
- 12 Adjournment Adjournment Debate: Public Administration Circular No. 19/2022 12 speeches