Sitting of Wednesday, 12 November 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 23378 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
Order of business
Speeches load per item. Summaries shown here are AI-generated and labelled; verbatim text is on each speech page.
- 1 Opening Opening Announcements 1 speeches
- 2 Oral question Oral Question 1289/2025: Lands belonging to Land Reform Commission - Transfer 5 speeches
- 3 Procedural Questions on Order Paper - Q.1312/2025, Q.1323/2025 3 speeches
- 4 Oral question Oral Question 1347/2025: Takeover of Maduwanwela Walawwa by Department of Archaeology 6 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Question 1477/2025: Use of Street Lighting Lamps by Local Authorities 6 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Question 1312/2025: Minimum Fixed Price for Paddy from 2015-2023 2 speeches
- 7 Oral question Question by Private Notice: Reforms to Piriven Education (Standing Order 27(2)) 19 speeches
- 8 Procedural Procedural Matters - Points of Order and Standing Order 27(2) clarifications 11 speeches
- 9 Debate Appropriation Bill, 2026 - Second Reading Debate 163 speeches
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara JJB
AI summary Prof. Sena Nanayakkara supported the Appropriation Bill, describing it as the Government’s second Budget and urging Parliament and the Opposition to engage in more substantive debate rather than partisan heckling. He highlighted the Budget’s focus on broad-based benefits, productive economic development, and rural poverty eradication, arguing that it gives particular support to village communities. He cited irrigation and agricultural investments, including rehabilitation of 307 tanks in Anuradhapura District, allocations for irrigation development, canal and tank rehabilitation, and the restarted Lower Malwathu Oya project, as measures intended to improve cultivation, drinking water supply, flood control, jobs, and incomes.
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera criticized the Government for failing to enact the legislative programme announced in the 2025 Budget, stating that none of the 11 promised economic and regulatory Bills had been passed and that Parliament’s legislative output had fallen compared with recent years. He questioned the adequacy of funding for CIABOC and the absence of corruption cases referred to the Permanent High Court-at-Bar, arguing that anti-corruption commitments were not being matched by action. He also urged the Government to proceed with its manifesto commitment to introduce a new Constitution abolishing the Executive Presidency and establishing a parliamentary system, noting that the Budget speech was silent on this issue.
- The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary The Minister of Justice and National Integration responded to a question regarding the number of trials-at-bar referred to the Permanent High Court-at-Bar. He indicated that he wished to address that specific point raised by the Member.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera referred to the special Permanent High Court-at-Bar, indicating relevance to its role or proceedings. No further substantive argument, proposal, or question is contained in the provided extract.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary Minister Harshana Nanayakkara asks for clarification on whether the reference is to the period since the current Government came into office. The intervention appears to be a brief procedural or clarificatory question rather than a substantive policy statement.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Harshana Nanayakkara, Attorney-at-Law - Minister of Justice and National Integration JJB
AI summary The Minister stated that the decision to assign a case to the Permanent High Court-at-Bar is made by the Chief Justice and the Judicial Service Commission upon application by the Attorney-General, not by the Minister of Justice or any political authority. He added that such selections are made expeditiously by the Chief Justice.
Justice & Human Rights Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera argued that Government policy on pursuing serious legal cases should not depend passively on the Attorney-General, and called for the AG to be directed to identify such cases and seek the Chief Justice’s approval. He stated that applications and approvals are not currently being pursued, and asked the Government to clarify the status of its promise to introduce a new Constitution.
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera criticized the Minister for not answering a question about a new Constitution. He alleged that the Government intended to continue with the existing amended Constitution due to an attachment to executive power.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Anura Karunathilaka - Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation JJB
AI summary The Minister outlined the Government’s economic performance in 2025, citing higher public salaries and pensions, restarted infrastructure projects, improved revenue without new taxes, a primary surplus, and gains in employment, remittances, exports, and tourism. He said further growth is needed to address unemployment among qualified youth and remaining hardship among vulnerable groups, and noted forthcoming legal measures in 2026 including PPP legislation, amendments to investment-related Acts, and an Investment Protection Bill. He highlighted Budget allocations for investment zones, SME development, industrial estates, collateral-free lending, and digitalization, including GovPay, GovTech, a Digital Economy Council, and the planned first digital ID by the third quarter of 2026.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna - Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure JJB
AI summary The Minister defended the Budget proposal to increase estate workers’ daily wage to Rs. 1,750, comprising Rs. 200 from companies and Rs. 200 from the Government, and said the measure would add Rs. 10,000 to monthly income for 25 workdays. He rejected Opposition claims that the Government contribution is illegal, arguing that approval of the Appropriation Bill provides authority and comparing it with existing subsidies and planned support for private-sector employees with disabilities. He also alleged misuse of World Bank-funded ASMP grants under previous administrations, named several recipients, said the Treasury had repaid a demanded amount to avoid consequences for Sri Lanka, and stated that legal action through the Attorney-General is being pursued.
- The Hon. Mano Ganesan SJB
AI summary Mano Ganesan briefly stated that making payments in that manner is acceptable.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna JJB
AI summary Hon. K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna defended the Budget allocation for estate workers, stating that Rs. 5,000 million is sufficient to provide the proposed Rs. 200 benefit because Labour Ministry figures show 87,600 registered RPC estate workers, not 140,000. He argued that the Government inherited major unpaid obligations, including EPF/ETF, gratuity arrears, senior citizens’ interest subsidies, and stalled State projects, and said the Budget allocates funds to address these issues, make multipurpose workers permanent, and complete projects such as the Dambulla cold store and the Badalgama MilkCo plant. He said there are no new taxes and that improved revenue collection and targeted transfers to workers, persons with disabilities, children, and other groups would help resolve social problems and stimulate the economy over the Government’s term.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna JJB
AI summary K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna defended the Budget as setting the Government’s economic direction toward expanded investment, SME support, digitalization, and a targeted 5 percent growth rate, with a longer-term aim of 7 percent. He said vehicle procurement was intended to improve State sector efficiency rather than provide luxuries, and described reforms such as a BOI single-window system, transparent allocation of underutilized Ministry lands, and listing abandoned bungalows and closed factories for investors. He argued that removing administrative bottlenecks, improving infrastructure, and adopting technologies such as AI would attract investment, create jobs, and support economic expansion.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna JJB
AI summary Hon. K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna supported the Budget, describing it as focused on public welfare and social needs, and highlighted an allocation of Rs. 12,000 million to begin establishing a new multi-storey cardiac centre to address long waiting lists for heart surgeries in major hospitals. He also referred to the creation of 75,000 jobs and increased allowances for railway level-crossing gatekeepers as measures the Government was implementing. He urged the public to support the Government’s programme, including its actions against corruption, narcotics, and the underworld, and said it would deliver improved living conditions.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Hon. Elayathamby Srinath welcomed measures in the Budget to strengthen the economy, support war-displaced housing, increase estate worker wages, and fund development projects in Batticaloa, including bridges, fisheries harbour development, irrigation, and universities. He urged additional attention to underdeveloped areas such as Padavan-karai, calling for improved hospitals, roads, bridges, fisheries harbours, and the release of tanks held by state agencies to expand irrigation. He raised unresolved grazing land disputes in Mayilathamadu, Mathavanai and other areas, criticised the lack of Budget measures for herders, and demanded stronger action on human-elephant conflict, including elephant fencing, Wildlife Department sub-offices, and officer appointments. He also requested that land currently occupied by the prison adjoining Batticaloa Teaching Hospital be transferred to the hospital to address its space shortage and support planned health-sector upgrades.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath commended the Government and the President for action against narcotics and corruption and for efforts to maintain a just administration. He urged the Government to make a firm decision on Tamil rights and stated that he would support future government programmes where they are appropriate.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary The Minister argued that the 2026 Budget is viewed in the North and by Tamil-speaking communities as inclusive and supportive of national unity, while criticizing opposition parties for relying on grievance-based politics. He highlighted serious challenges in the North and East, including population decline, emigration, poverty, falling educational performance, reduced parliamentary representation, and drug-related criminal activity. He urged greater attention to local issues in the Budget debate and said the Government would take measures to improve education and address the social and economic problems affecting those regions.
- The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam questioned the basis for the Minister’s claim that education in the North had improved over the past seven months and requested supporting evidence. He also alleged that the military presence in the North and East was a main cause of the drug problem and asked when it would be removed.
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar said education in the North has improved, but parents are still sending children to Colombo or abroad because of threats from drug mafias, citing more than 100 children leaving in the past two months. He argued that while some elements within the military and police may be involved in drugs, it is inaccurate to blame the institutions as a whole, and alleged that some Tamil politicians are linked to drug networks, including recent arrests.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam welcomed the Minister’s acknowledgment that members of the military and police are involved in the drug problem, contrasting it with previous governments’ reluctance to admit this. He argued that drug mafias cannot be eliminated without holding the military accountable, citing the high military presence in the North as a relevant concern.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar argued that blame for misconduct should not be placed on the entire military or police, but on a few individuals involved. He also alleged that political allies of the opposing side helped create and support mafia networks, while indicating he would proceed despite that contention.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar raised a procedural point, stating that although he had been allotted 16 minutes, he had spoken for only 13 minutes. He requested the Deputy Speaker to grant him one additional minute to continue.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar stated that ongoing development programmes aim to rebuild public confidence and promote unity, equality, and interfaith harmony among all ethnic communities. He announced that a “Sri Lankan Day” would be held in December to bring citizens together under one flag, and called for cooperation in transforming Jaffna into a progressing region free from political mafias.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or policy issue was stated in the provided extract.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna clarified that his intervention was not related to the matter under discussion.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Under Standing Order 82(1), the Member raised a procedural objection that prohibited or unparliamentary words should be expunged from Hansard and accompanied by an apology. He referred to a recent incident in which a Minister allegedly addressed him as “tamuse” and stated that he had submitted the matter for action.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a procedural concern about inconsistent treatment of remarks in the House. He referred to a comment made during Hon. Lakmali’s speech and questioned why one remark was suggested for a Privilege Question while only the insult directed at him had been expunged, arguing that the phrase “going with” was not inherently offensive.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar briefly asked the Deputy Speaker for a moment, without making a substantive policy point or raising a specific parliamentary matter.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar raised a point of order objecting to Hon. Archchuna having referred to Hon. Ilankumaran as “செம்மறி ஆடு” (“goat”) in the Chamber. He urged that such insulting language was unacceptable in parliamentary proceedings.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Major General (Rtd.) Aruna Jayasekera - Deputy Minister of Defence JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister of Defence challenged allegations that military and police personnel are involved in drug trafficking, asking Hon. Gajendra Ponnambalam to provide specific names, locations, units, regiments, and police stations. He stated that any such information would be investigated and denied that the defence establishment has links to trafficking.
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen rose to a point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or policy issue was stated in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Major General (Rtd.) Aruna Jayasekera JJB
AI summary Major General (Rtd.) Aruna Jayasekera supported the Government’s second Budget, arguing that it reflects fiscal discipline, institutional reform, transparency, and a people-centred economic programme after what he described as past mismanagement and corruption. He said restoring law and order, depoliticising the Police and security forces, and combating narcotics and organized crime were essential to economic stability and public confidence. He highlighted the continuing “United as One” operation, recent large drug seizures including off Kirinda, and the Budget’s proposed Rs. 1,500 million allocation for drug control programmes, while also stressing public service modernization and accountability.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Major General (Rtd.) Aruna Jayasekera JJB
AI summary Major General (Rtd.) Aruna Jayasekera stated that recent weaknesses in the public service had contributed to public dissatisfaction. He supported the Budget, noting that it allocates significant resources to strengthen the public service, and said the results of its proposals would be visible in the following year.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna rose to a point of Order. No substantive issue, proposal, or argument is included in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna stated that he would read Standing Order 29(2). No substantive argument, proposal, or policy issue was presented in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a new question of privilege, alleging that the Fisheries Minister had falsely referred to Hon. Ilankumaran’s name as “BOO.” He cited the Parliament (Powers and Privileges) Act, referring to provisions on willfully publishing false or distorted reports of parliamentary debates.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna clarified that the matter being referred to was a new one. No further substantive argument, proposal, or question was raised in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary The Member sought procedural clarification from the Chair on whether to raise the matter as a Question of Privilege.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen rose on a point of order. No substantive argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Rishad Bathiudeen began addressing the Deputy Minister of Defence, but the provided excerpt contains no substantive remarks, questions, proposals, or references to specific defence matters or policy issues.
Security & Defence Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Rishad Bathiudeen briefly sought confirmation from the Chair or proceedings staff that time remained available for him to speak or continue. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or question beyond the allocation of speaking time was raised.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen requested one minute from the Deputy Speaker to continue or make a brief intervention. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or question was raised in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen alleged that the OIC of Norochcholai Police was facilitating drug distribution, citing a recorded phone call in which the officer purportedly instructed a logistics handler on arrangements and payment. He asked the Deputy Minister of Defence to investigate the allegation and take action, noting that no action had been taken so far.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Major General (Rtd.) Aruna Jayasekera JJB
AI summary Assured that the matter raised would be inquired into and appropriate action taken, acknowledging the message conveyed.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Hon. Dilith Jayaweera acknowledged some positive developments under the Government, including improved ease of doing business and greater space for new political voices, but warned that expectations of zero corruption and democratic openness appeared to be weakening. Critiquing the Budget, he argued that it lacked a national vision and relied on IMF-driven fiscal targets, taxation, and primary surplus claims rather than a credible plan for growth and public welfare. He said poverty, unemployment, and reduced purchasing power were worsening, and criticized the continuation or expansion of taxes on essentials such as health, school supplies, and milk powder despite earlier promises.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Najith Indika JJB
AI summary The Hon. (Dr.) Najith Indika argued that the Opposition had not engaged substantively with the 2026 Budget’s revenue, expenditure, and policy proposals, unlike in previous debates where it raised claims such as alleged salary cuts. He said the Budget sets the Government’s political and economic direction, and defended its priorities while rejecting claims that poverty had tripled, citing figures of 14.3 percent in 2019, about 25 percent in 2023, and around 22 percent at present. He also began to respond to criticism that 20 percent of capital allocations had gone unspent, placing it in the context of typical annual capital expenditure implementation rates.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Najith Indika JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Najith Indika defended the Government’s expenditure management and said the 2025 Budget is on track, with key fiscal indicators expected to improve by end-December. He said the March Budget focused on relief and household economic recovery through measures such as a major public sector salary increase, expanded school meal funding, and higher social protection allowances. He described the current Budget as a development Budget centred on six strategic objectives, including sustainable growth, export diversification, debt sustainability, rural poverty eradication and digitization. He argued that the Government has begun reversing the debt cycle by increasing revenue, reducing expenditure and narrowing the Budget deficit while maintaining relief for the public.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. U.P. Abeywickrama, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. U.P. Abeywickrama defended the NPP Government’s first year in office, citing economic stabilization, fiscal discipline, improved revenue collection, targeted welfare support, tourism recovery, and the holding of two elections. He said the Government had strengthened social cohesion, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and the independence of judicial and investigative institutions. He praised President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s Budget presentation and criticised the Opposition for failing to offer substantive or constructive criticism.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a point of order under Standing Order 92(2), questioning the procedural basis for allowing Hon. Lakmali Hemachandra five minutes to speak. He asked whether the time was granted to record a point or to allow a Minister to respond, and queried the reason for the allocation.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Lakmali Hemachandra raised a point of order after her name was mentioned in the chamber. She requested that the Chair prevent a Member from making statements that, in her view, demean the dignity and seriousness of Parliament.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mano Ganesan SJB
AI summary Hon. Mano Ganesan objected that he had not been allowed to speak after Hon. (Dr.) Najith Indika referred to him by name during the debate. He appeared to seek an opportunity to respond to that reference.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Mano Ganesan SJB
AI summary Hon. Mano Ganesan requested that the House be brought to order and asked to be allowed to speak without interruption. He indicated that his remarks would concern people living under severe hardship.
Cost of Living Full speech → - The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri raised a point of order under Standing Order 92, stating that a ruling by the Chair cannot be challenged by Members. He said any issue concerning a Member’s name should be pursued through a motion and referred to the relevant Committee, rather than being raised through the Chair for political effect.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Mano Ganesan SJB
AI summary Hon. Mano Ganesan welcomed the Budget proposal to provide estate workers an additional Rs. 400, while stressing that legal questions about the Government’s Rs. 200 contribution should not delay payment. He urged the Government to address broader plantation community issues, including land rights, individual housing rather than flats, and clarification of promised housing numbers under Indian-assisted and other programmes. He called for strengthening, not abolishing, the New Villages Development Authority for the Plantation Region, arguing that it coordinates long-term development needs across ministries. He also said the Tamil Progressive Alliance’s policy is to move estate workers from wage dependence toward land ownership, housing, and stakeholder status through cooperatives.
- The Hon. K.V. Samantha Vidyarathna JJB
AI summary Hon. K.V. Samantha Vidyarathna clarified that the 2025 estate housing programme planned 4,700 houses, with beneficiaries selected by Divisional Secretary-led committees prioritizing families at high landslide risk, but the process was delayed after representations to the Indian High Commission. He stated that deeds had recently been issued for 2,056 houses in Bandaragama and that contractor-related issues affecting 1,300 houses from the previous year were being addressed. He also said the New Villages Development Authority for the Plantation Region was not being abolished and that, for the first time, it had been given a dedicated Budget line to strengthen it institutionally.
- The Hon. Mano Ganesan SJB
AI summary Hon. Mano Ganesan urged the Government to strengthen, not undermine, the Authority for Up-country development, noting its role in coordinating multiple ministries for a historically disadvantaged community that received citizenship and education access late. He questioned a Planters’ Association of Ceylon letter rejecting the Authority and asked the Minister to verify a previous Rs. 5 million Budget allocation under President Ranil Wickremesinghe. He argued that plantation-region development should go beyond wages to include land rights and housing for all residents, including non-workers, and called for implementation of Indian-funded housing and related commitments, referencing the Government’s Hatton Declaration.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Najith Indika JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Najith Indika rose on a point of order. No substantive issue or argument is recorded in the provided speech excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Lieutenant Commander (Rtd.) Prageeth Madhuranga JJB
AI summary Hon. Prageeth Madhuranga defended the Police and Tri-Forces against allegations of involvement in narcotics, stating that any isolated cases should be reported and dealt with without regard to rank. Speaking on the 2026 Appropriation, he argued that the Government had stabilized the economy after default, improved credit ratings, rebuilt reserves, increased revenue to 16 per cent of GDP, reduced the debt-to-GDP ratio, and restored growth. He outlined the Budget’s six pillars, including inclusive growth, export diversification, debt sustainability, support for MSMEs and productive sectors, rural poverty reduction, and digitization. He also cited debt-servicing figures and expected savings from debt treatment as evidence that future external debt obligations are manageable.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Nilanthi Kottahachchi, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Nilanthi Kottahachchi supported the Government’s second Budget, describing it as an economic work programme aimed at stabilizing the macroeconomy, improving living standards, and implementing six policy pillars including sustainable growth, export diversification, debt sustainability, rural poverty eradication, productivity, and digitization. She highlighted measures such as the estate workers’ wage increase with public funding, the increase of the Mahapola scholarship to Rs. 10,000, and a Rs. 100 million allocation for street dog welfare as examples of people-focused governance. She also noted forthcoming legal reforms, including the Public-Private Partnership Bill and Investment Protection Bill, as steps to attract investment, and called for cross-party and public cooperation in national development.
- The Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen SJB
AI summary Hon. Rishad Bathiudeen welcomed several Budget allocations, including funds for the Malwathu Oya project, the Ashraff Cultural Centre, estate worker wage support, and housing in war-affected areas, while urging that displaced Muslims in Jaffna be included in housing and infrastructure programmes. He called for non-political action against drug trafficking and requested urgent progress on stalled projects in Mannar, including the co-op hospital, Silavathurai hall, Mannar–Puttalam road, and Talaimannar jetty rehabilitation. He also sought clarity and public consultation on wind power and mineral sands plans in Mannar, proposing that further wind projects be shifted away from Mannar Island to protect tourism and fisheries potential.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nihal Abeysinghe JJB
AI summary Dr. Nihal Abeysinghe moved that Hon. Chanaka Madugoda take the Chair, addressing the Deputy Chairperson of Committees.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Muneer Mulaffer - Deputy Minister of Religious and Cultural Affairs JJB
AI summary Hon. Muneer Mulaffer seconded the motion before the House. The question was put and agreed to, after which the Deputy Chairperson of Committees left the Chair and Hon. Chanaka Madugoda took the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Namal Karunaratne - Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Namal Karunaratne argued that the Opposition’s own opening remarks in the Budget Debate acknowledged economic stabilization, support for the anti-corruption programme, continued public support for the Government, increased vehicle imports, and a Treasury surplus. He said later Opposition criticisms contradicted those acknowledgements, particularly claims that the surplus was achieved merely by raising taxes. He maintained that the Government had improved tax management and compliance by bringing previous tax evaders into the system rather than simply increasing taxes.
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera rose on a point of order. No substantive issue or argument was stated in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Namal Karunaratne JJB
AI summary Namal Karunaratne states that a charge or accusation is being raised. No further details, context, or specific demand are provided in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera denied an allegation concerning the Opposition Leader’s sister, stating that she had been defrauded, that the offender was prosecuted in the High Court, imprisoned, and ordered to pay her compensation as the victim. He criticised Government-side Deputy Ministers for making what he described as false and improper statements in Parliament.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Namal Karunaratne JJB
AI summary Namal Karunaratne clarified that he had stated only that an allegation existed. The remark appears to distinguish between asserting a fact and referring to the presence of an allegation.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera challenged a claim made in the debate by asking where such an allegation had been made. The intervention appears to seek clarification or evidence for a referenced accusation.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Namal Karunaratne JJB
AI summary Namal Karunaratne defended the Budget as one that gives reasonable expectations to the public while rejecting what he described as bad-faith criticism from the Opposition. He outlined Government measures to address agricultural market problems following increased production, including procurement of big onions and potatoes, a Rs. 1,000 million allocation for maize, potato and onion market issues, and forthcoming guaranteed prices with more systematic purchasing. He said the Government would also reduce production costs and improve yields, and defended support for plantation workers’ wage increases as assistance to low-income workers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Manjula Suraweera Arachchi JJB
AI summary Manjula Suraweera Arachchi highlighted urgent price difficulties faced by potato, onion and upcountry vegetable farmers in Nuwara Eliya, stating that the Agriculture, Industries and Trade Ministers were coordinating measures to stabilize prices from the next season. Supporting the 80th Budget, he said it advances economic democracy and allocates funds for plantation worker wage increases, including a Rs. 200 daily attendance incentive from the Treasury, as well as estate housing. He also cited allocations for rural roads, drinking water expansion in Nuwara Eliya, and the modernization of Hatton, while criticizing Opposition members who oppose the Budget and its support for estate workers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi criticised the Government’s handling of the cost of living, agriculture, fisheries, education and health, arguing that campaign promises on tax relief, school supplies, vehicles and support for farmers and fishers had not been fulfilled. He said prices of essentials, utilities, transport, medicines and school materials had risen, while hospitals lacked medicines and patients were being made to buy drugs and surgical items privately. He contrasted this with programmes under the previous Government and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, including school buses, smart classrooms, free cardiac surgery, cancer drugs and reduced medicine prices, and asked whether the Government would restore or allow those initiatives to continue. He also alleged that no meaningful relief had been allocated for fishers despite promises, and claimed that shortages and imports of items such as salt, rice, onions and potatoes benefited private interests through commissions.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe, rose on a point of order. No substantive policy position, proposal, or question was included in the recorded speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe briefly objected to a statement made by another Member, saying it presented an incorrect notion. No further argument, proposal, or policy issue was elaborated in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi alleged that narcotics-related containers, including precursor chemicals for cocaine and methamphetamine, had reached Hambantota and called for a special operation to eradicate the drug problem in the district. He urged that proposed security committees in Hambantota’s 576 GN divisions include representatives of all four parties as well as police, rather than only government supporters. He also criticised the JVP for past opposition to major infrastructure, industry, education, health, and trade initiatives, arguing that the country now depends on many of those policies and projects.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha defended the 2026 Budget under the Government’s “Prosperous Country – Beautiful Life” policy framework, arguing that claims of no allocations for fisheries or new taxes were inaccurate. She cited allocations for agriculture and fisheries and economic indicators including projected growth, reserves, exports, remittances, tourism earnings, revenue, and the primary balance as evidence of improved economic management. She also highlighted planned public sector recruitment, payment of delayed pensions, improved labour indicators, and defended the proposed Rs. 400 plantation worker wage increase, with contributions from both companies and Government, as support owed to Sri Lankan workers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Namal Karunaratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Namal Karunaratne moved that Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara take the Chair.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi formally seconded the motion under consideration. The House then agreed to the question, after which the Chair changed from Hon. Chanaka Madugoda to Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Nihal Abeysinghe JJB
AI summary (Dr.) Nihal Abeysinghe clarified that the Social Security Contribution Levy on vehicles is not a new tax but an existing levy to be collected properly at import, manufacture or sale. He detailed Budget allocations for fisheries infrastructure, harbour rehabilitation, fisher safety technology, fish catch improvement, satellite-based fishing ground identification, and inland fisheries, while rejecting Opposition claims of poor implementation of the 2025 Budget. He said most planned projects in the Horana DS Division would be completed by year-end and argued that the Government had stabilized the economy, advanced debt restructuring, expanded welfare and restarted development after taking office during an economic crisis. He cited acknowledgements by Opposition MPs on economic stabilization, exports, fiscal improvements and anti-corruption efforts to support the Government’s 2026 Budget direction.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan DTNA
AI summary Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan said development funds in the Vanni are difficult to implement when allocations are released late, especially during the rainy season, and urged the Government to address administrative barriers created by the Forest Department, Wildlife Department and similar agencies over land needed for housing, agriculture, hospitals and other projects. He questioned delays or obstruction to Indian-supported development at Palaly, Kankesanthurai and the Talaimannar–Rameswaram ferry, arguing that such assistance would support tourism and economic growth. He called for the immediate repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, saying it deters investment including from the diaspora, and raised urgent concerns about Mannar General Hospital, including shortages of specialists, non-reporting of transferred anaesthetists, ambulance limitations and risks to pregnant mothers and emergency patients.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Aravinda Senarath - Deputy Minister of Land and Irrigation JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister praised the Government’s second Budget as people-focused and said public reaction across sectors was positive. He argued that the Opposition was divided in its response, with some acknowledging Government achievements while others criticized revenue and growth measures. He also urged Members to avoid personal attacks and uphold the dignity of Parliament as a law-making institution.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Raising a point of order under Standing Order 92(2), the Member made a brief remark suggesting that wearing a mask in the House would be acceptable if there were a dog present. No further procedural request or substantive policy issue was raised.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Hon. Aravinda Senarath defended the NPP Government’s 2025 record, arguing that since appropriations began only in May, it had used the first months to rebuild public finances while expanding targeted welfare. He listed increases to Aswesuma, CKD, elderly, education, nutrition, scholarship, Mahapola, preschool, vocational, and housing benefits, as well as measures such as banning child labour from 1 July and adding 150 ambulances to Suwaseriya. He also highlighted housing grant increases, title regularization, continued foreign-assisted housing, and a higher fertilizer subsidy, while criticizing previous housing projects built in unsuitable locations such as elephant corridors.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Aravinda Senarath JJB
AI summary Aravinda Senarath said the Government had arranged relief measures including a Rs. 14,000 fertilizer subsidy for inter-season cultivation, farmer compensation payments including arrears, Rs. 15,000 per hectare in additional cultivation assistance, a fuel subsidy for fishers, and expanded access to the President’s Fund at village level. He criticized the Opposition over past handling of compensation and welfare funds, and stated that the public servants’ basic salary would rise from Rs. 24,250 to Rs. 40,000, with 30 percent of the increase paid from January 2026. He argued that the 2025 relief measures and the 2026 Budget would support development and change Sri Lanka’s political and economic trajectory.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof questioned the Government’s claim that the 2026 Budget is “the best in history,” arguing that many 2025 Budget pledges and election promises remain unimplemented and asking how the Opposition can have confidence in new proposals. He criticized Government members for continuing to blame the 2021-2022 economic crisis despite having taken office in 2024, and called on them to focus on delivery rather than past governments. He also alleged that, although the Government rejects ethnic or regional divisions in rhetoric, its actions show inadequate inclusion of Muslim and Tamil representation, citing Cabinet formation and the Clean Sri Lanka initiative.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Fasmin Sharif JJB
AI summary Hon. Fasmin Sharif supported the Budget, highlighting proposed measures for plantation workers, including a Rs. 200 government grant alongside wage increases that he said would raise daily earnings to Rs. 1,750, and allocations for health, tourism development in Nuwara Eliya, Digana and Ambuluwa, and Rs. 400 million for Gampola Hospital. He argued the Budget was inclusive and aimed at economic recovery, debt management, inflation control, education and technology development, while crediting the Government for projects in Gampola. He also commended Anoma Dilrukshi Jayaratne for returning a valuable property to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, rejected allegations that the Government was racist or neglecting Muslim MPs, and defended NPP members against Opposition claims of corruption.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kins Nelson SJB
AI summary Kins Nelson reviewed implementation of the 2025 Budget and argued that several allocations had shown limited or no progress, citing youth agriculture loans, sports funding, and a waste removal machine for Anuradhapura. He criticized the absence of clear Budget proposals for key Ministries, especially Defence, and raised concerns over national security and a recent US travel advisory. He called for greater attention to the human-elephant conflict, noting deaths and limited progress on fence maintenance, and questioned delays and adequacy in agricultural support, including fertilizer subsidies and market problems faced by onion farmers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary Hon. Kumara Jayakody moved that Hon. Upul Kithsiri take the Chair. The motion was agreed to, after which Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara vacated the Chair and Hon. Upul Kithsiri assumed it.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ashoka Gunasena JJB
AI summary Ashoka Gunasena supported the 2026 Budget, arguing that it continues the government’s post-2025 direction of economic stabilization, production-led development, and social wellbeing across age groups. He contrasted it with previous budgets, which he said relied on short-term promises and failed to build production, citing unpaid government obligations to banks for promised interest on retirees’ deposits and noting that the new Budget provides for those payments. He also rejected Opposition criticism on IMF-related issues and VAT on health equipment, stating that the government had ended corrupt COVID-era antigen test procurement practices and was pursuing a non-corrupt approach to health and public finance.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Nilusha Lakmali Gamage, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Nilusha Lakmali Gamage supported the 2026 Budget, arguing that the Government had stabilized the macroeconomy, strengthened public finances and state-owned enterprises, and addressed corruption and accountability after its first Budget. She outlined the Budget’s strategic objectives, including inclusive growth, export diversification, debt sustainability, rural poverty reduction, digitalization, investment facilitation through proposed PPP and Investment Protection laws, and tourism earnings targets. She highlighted allocations for a National Cardiac Unit, plantation worker wage and attendance incentives, women’s entrepreneurship, senior citizens, and migrant worker housing loans and pensions, and urged Ratnapura gem traders to invest their earnings productively.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Jagath Vithana SJB
AI summary Jagath Vithana argued that the 2026 Budget has not provided real relief to citizens, citing high prices, imports during local harvests, and concerns over vehicle imports for parliamentarians despite past promises to reject perks. He stated he would refuse the double-cab vehicle offered to him and tabled related documents, while questioning the Government’s claims on Treasury strength and foreign reserves, noting limited reserve growth and a current account deficit. He also raised concerns about drug trafficking exposed by media in Colombo and criticized the alleged non-implementation and underfunding of the Anti-Corruption Act and CIABOC.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Manjula Sugath Rathnayaka JJB
AI summary Hon. Manjula Sugath Rathnayaka supported the 2026 Budget, stating that it focuses on macroeconomic stability, fiscal discipline, strengthening State-Owned Enterprises, and public accountability while reducing political perks, waste, and corruption. He highlighted proposals including public sector salary increases and recruitment, support for SMEs, improvements to trade facilitation through the National Single Window, domestic airport expansion, public facility upgrades, and increased Mahapola and bursary payments. He also cited allocations for health infrastructure, women’s empowerment, human-elephant conflict mitigation, regularizing temporary public employees, and housing for artists, media workers, and the upcountry plantation community.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Janaka Senarathna JJB
AI summary Dr. Janaka Senarathna defended the 2026 Budget, stating that half of the Rs. 8,980 billion expenditure is required for debt servicing due to past borrowing, leaving limited space for capital spending. He highlighted allocations for health, education, public service salaries, hospital development, medical supplies, Suvaseriya, nutrition, primary healthcare, and specific projects including upgrades at Ratnapura Hospital and the National Cardiac Unit. He supported the proposed National Pay Commission to address public service salary disparities and noted plans to complete abandoned public construction projects through public-private partnerships. He also cited allocations for dairy, fisheries, Thriposha, antimicrobial resistance monitoring, youth from probationary homes, roads, and the Ruwanpura Expressway.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ismail Muththu Mohamed
AI summary Hon. Ismail Muththu Mohamed supported the 2026 Budget’s stated objectives and anti-drug and anti-corruption measures, but urged that the 37 initiatives and development projects be implemented equitably rather than on political considerations. He highlighted the long-term impact of the LTTE’s expulsion of Northern Muslims, welcomed the Rs. 5,000 million allocation for internally displaced persons’ housing, and asked that locally displaced people not be sidelined, including where lands have been gazetted as forest or wildlife areas. He also requested funding to complete stalled school, tank, and housing projects in his district, expressed concern over past treatment of Muslims during COVID-19 and after the Easter attacks, and called for imported copies of the Holy Qur’an held by Customs to be released without delay.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Asoka Sapumal Ranwala JJB
AI summary Hon. Asoka Sapumal Ranwala defended the 2026 Budget by highlighting projected revenue of Rs. 5,355 billion, primary expenditure of Rs. 4,485 billion, and a primary surplus of Rs. 870 billion, while noting that interest payments, amortization and adjustments create a gross financing need of Rs. 3,740 billion. He called for substantive parliamentary discussion on how to meet that financing requirement, criticizing the Opposition for not addressing it constructively. He also emphasized the Budget’s focus on reducing rural poverty, particularly through expanded economic opportunities, village-level organization such as the Dairy Hub programme, and infrastructure development.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Hector Appuhamy SJB
AI summary Hon. Hector Appuhamy criticized the 2026 Budget debate for focusing on allocations rather than implementation and outcomes, arguing that poverty now affects middle-class public servants as well as rural communities. He called for targeted relief for collapsed SMEs, including interest reductions and support for assets auctioned by banks, and urged the Government to suspend the proposed SVAT change unless timely refund mechanisms are guaranteed for exporters and import-dependent SMEs. He also proposed that the Government absorb the cost of purchasing smallholder crops such as potatoes and onions at fair prices instead of passing costs to consumers, and raised concerns that politicization and intimidation in public administration are weakening state functions.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Stefni Fernando JJB
AI summary Stefni Fernando defended the 2026 Budget as a consultative and collectively designed programme, saying the Finance Minister engaged professional, business, labour and community groups before its preparation and that the previous 2025 budget helped stabilize the economy and generate savings. She argued that reduced waste, equal treatment of investors, land and infrastructure preparation, and support for innovation, SMEs and producers would attract investment and expand employment. She also noted plans to strengthen state institutions through recruitment, extend budget benefits to estate workers, increase railway gatekeepers’ monthly allowance from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 15,000, and allocate funds for additional public servants.
- The Hon. (Prof.) A.L.H.M.H. Abayarathna - Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government
AI summary The Minister moved that the debate be adjourned, and the motion was agreed to. The debate was accordingly adjourned and scheduled to resume on Thursday, 13 November 2025.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural