Sitting of Thursday, 20 November 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 22934 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
Order of business
Speeches load per item. Summaries shown here are AI-generated and labelled; verbatim text is on each speech page.
- 1 Opening Parliament Opening 1 speeches
- 2 Papers Papers Presented: Annual Reports (National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority, Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation, Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel, National Science Foundation) 4 speeches
- 3 Petitions Petitions: Petition from Mr. Jeevan Prasanna Wijegunawardena 1 speeches
- 4 Oral question Oral Question No. 1 (Q.680/2025): Environment - Deputy Minister Response and Adjournment 6 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Question No. 2 (Q.812/2025): Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery Expansion and Modernization Project 9 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Question No. 3 (Q.812/2025): Financial Cybercrime Complaints (Second Round) 7 speeches
- 7 Oral question Oral Question No. 1300/2025: Committee to Look into Proposed Education Council 2 speeches
- 8 Oral question Oral Question No. 3 (Q.812/2025): Second Round (Second Attempt) - Adjournment 3 speeches
- 9 Oral question Oral Question by Private Notice (Standing Order 27(2)): Grant of Permission for Muslim Female Nurses to Wear Trousers 5 speeches
- 10 Procedural Ministerial Statement and Points of Order: 'Aruna' News Report (19.11.2025) and Related Procedural Matters 61 speeches
- 11 Debate Committee Stage: Appropriation Bill 2026 - Head 119 (Ministry of Energy) Cut Motion and Debate 158 speeches
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera moved the customary Rs. 10 reduction under Head 119 and criticized changes in Minister Nalinda Jayatissa’s stance on media-related issues after assuming office. Turning to the electricity sector, he said the Opposition supports Ceylon Electricity Board restructuring into more manageable functions to improve service and pricing, but argued that future reforms must allow domestic and foreign investment if Sri Lanka is to develop a smart grid requiring an estimated USD 8–10 billion. He urged the Government to engage an experienced professional restructuring firm, such as PwC or another comparable firm, to manage the transition rather than relying only on limited internal arrangements.
- Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka briefly informed the House that five minutes were being allotted, likely managing speaking time during the debate. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or question was raised in this intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera urged the Government to move beyond anti-India attitudes and pursue mutually beneficial investment, particularly by activating the 66 unused oil tanks at Trincomalee through Indian participation or other investors with India’s concurrence. He criticised the lack of progress at Trincomalee Port and described it as a missed national opportunity rather than an India-related obstacle. He welcomed the move from the earlier Adani power proposal to competitive tenders yielding lower renewable energy prices, and called for all future power generation projects to be awarded only through competitive tendering to ensure cheaper, secure electricity for industry and employment.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- Hon. Kumara Jayakody - Minister of Energy JJB
AI summary The Minister outlined the 2026 Energy Ministry estimates, stating that recent CEB Act amendments would restructure the electricity sector into four fully state-owned entities while protecting employee rights and avoiding asset sales. He said a National Electricity Policy, fair pricing framework, smart meter rollout, battery storage procurement, and PPP-based competitive investment processes are intended to improve transparency, system stability, renewable generation, and tariffs. He reported progress toward adding 2,000 MW of solar capacity, including about 800 MW added by October 2025, and cited ongoing wind and battery tenders. On petroleum, he noted that the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation had recorded a Rs. 32 billion profit by October.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa questioned the Government’s failure to implement election pledges to reduce electricity tariffs by 33 per cent and sell fuel closer to landed cost by removing taxes and commissions. He criticised the proposed Sahasdanavi combined cycle project, alleging that its Cabinet Paper used inaccurate assumptions on diesel prices and exchange rates, contrary to Public Utilities Commission observations, and warned of an estimated Rs. 7.3 billion cost to consumers. He also argued that renewable energy commitments, including solar expansion, were being undermined by reduced solar tariffs and inadequate support for existing solar investors.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa accused the Government of undermining renewable energy entrepreneurs, particularly in solar power, despite pledging to promote renewables, and alleged that it was serving fuel and electricity interests. He criticised the Government for continuing with the previous debt restructuring and IMF approach, arguing that macro-linked bonds could increase the debt burden as GDP grows and that domestic debt restructuring unfairly affected EPF and ETF holders while protecting banks and primary dealers. He called on the Government to strengthen renewables, reduce electricity tariffs by 33 per cent, and provide fuel at landed cost as previously promised.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- Hon. Kumara Jayakody - Minister of Energy JJB
AI summary Hon. Kumara Jayakody corrected the Leader of the Opposition’s statement on rooftop solar pricing, stating that the Government reduced the unit price from Rs. 27 to Rs. 19. He argued that purchasing electricity at higher rates, such as Rs. 37 per unit, would undermine the supply of cheaper power to low-use consumers, noting that about 70 per cent of consumers receive up to 90 units at Rs. 18.50 per unit.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa said he supports renewable energy producers, including solar entrepreneurs, and argued that expanding renewables is necessary to reduce electricity tariffs for consumers. He criticized reductions in payments to solar producers from Rs. 37 to Rs. 27 and then Rs. 19, claiming these cuts harm entrepreneurs, and urged verification of contract details through official files.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam argued that Sri Lanka should use energy policy to prevent future crises and generate foreign exchange, drawing lessons from countries such as Bhutan and Nepal that trade electricity with neighbouring grids. He supported the proposed HVDC grid interconnection with India, stating it would allow Sri Lanka to import power during shortages and export surplus renewable energy, particularly to meet growing demand in southern India. He proposed developing solar capacity, especially given Sri Lanka’s geographic advantages, and urged the Government to move beyond political objections to regional energy connectivity.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam urged the Government to use energy-sector connectivity and supply expansion to help avert electricity and fuel crises and reduce tariffs, citing the promised 33 per cent electricity bill reduction. He proposed revisiting Trincomalee energy hub plans, including the oil tank farm, pipeline connectivity with India, bunkering and refinery options, while questioning the need for a third refinery if pipeline-based fuel supply could lower costs and improve reserves. He also raised objections to the installation of 14 wind turbines in Mannar despite local opposition, and requested action on barriers to household solar connections in Batticaloa where residents are being asked to fund long-distance power line extensions.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ravindra Bandara
AI summary Hon. Ravindra Bandara supported the restructuring of the Ceylon Electricity Board into 12 government-owned companies, arguing it will improve transparency, competition and efficiency without staff layoffs. He rejected Opposition claims on renewable energy and tariffs, stating that 702 MW of the 2,000 MW renewable target has already been added and that a 30 per cent electricity bill reduction is intended over the next three years. He highlighted technical measures to integrate rooftop solar, including inverter control units, smart meters, smart grids, AI forecasting, and locally developed systems to improve real-time monitoring and grid stability.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ravindra Bandara
AI summary Ravindra Bandara urged members to support the Government’s renewable energy programme rather than oppose it as a matter of habit. He argued that the initiative would help advance Sri Lanka’s energy sector and make the country the lowest-cost electricity provider in Asia.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake NDF
AI summary Chamara Sampath Dasanayake argued that previous UNP and SLFP governments completed major power projects such as Uma Oya, Norochcholai, Victoria and Kotmale despite protests and criticism, and that the current Government is now benefiting from them. He asked whether Uma Oya’s full 120 MW capacity had been received and said projects like Norochcholai were essential to avoid load shedding and sustain economic growth. He also claimed that rural electrification in areas such as Haputale and Badulla was largely achieved under previous administrations, while the present Government had not yet added comparable capacity or infrastructure.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Anura Karunathilaka - Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation JJB
AI summary Minister Anura Karunathilaka said the 2026 Energy Head is aimed at supporting economic growth through reliable, fairly priced energy, noting that 702 MW was added in 2025 and electricity tariffs had been reduced by 11 per cent, with a longer-term target of about one-third. He outlined plans to expand solar, wind, floating solar and future hydrogen capacity, including feasibility studies, a hydrogen policy by year-end, and related tariff, battery, safety and standards frameworks in 2026. He also detailed fossil fuel security measures, including expanding storage from about 25 days toward 45 days, new tanks at Kolonnawa and Muthurajawela, and Cabinet-approved fuel pipelines from the Dolphin Oil Terminal to Kolonnawa and Colombo Port to reduce unloading times and costs.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF
AI summary Hon. Ravi Karunanayake warned that Sri Lanka faces a serious energy supply and cost challenge as electricity demand is projected to rise sharply by 2030, 2040 and 2050, while current generation costs and tariffs remain uncompetitive compared with regional peers. He urged policy clarity on CEB restructuring, greater commercialization, reduced political interference, protection of successful PPP models such as LECO, and an update on governance concerns raised over vehicle procurements. He argued that the country requires about US$ 8 billion in energy investment over the next 7–8 years and should shift more decisively towards renewables, noting their domestic value retention and the need to adjust planning and system absorption constraints to accommodate them.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilleka stated that his side would allocate extra speaking time to another member.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF
AI summary Ravi Karunanayake noted that the debt-to-GDP ratio remained at 104 per cent and argued that the stated Rs. 102 trillion GDP figure partly reflected rupee depreciation alongside rising debt stock. He called for careful capital absorption, energy planning that accounts for geopolitical factors in LNG decisions, timely retirement of old power plants, and investment in new capacity, including through private capital. He also urged that successful subsidiaries should not be weakened, but instead managed through taxation and regulation.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF
AI summary Ravi Karunanayake urged the Government to work constructively with the private sector to reduce energy costs, arguing that lowering unit prices to around Rs. 18–20 would improve industrial competitiveness. He also called for coordination with the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation and the IMF to allow investment while providing targeted relief.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary Hon. Kumara Jayakody raised a Point of Order. No substantive issue or argument was recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary Hon. Kumara Jayakody clarified issues raised on LECO vehicle purchases and the LTL Holdings IPO. He said LECO’s vehicle allocation was reduced from Rs. 622 million to Rs. 466 million for 17 vehicles, but procurement had been initiated by officials without the Chairman’s knowledge and would be cancelled after review. He also stated that LTL Holdings had withdrawn its IPO in writing because it no longer required funds.
- The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF
AI summary Ravi Karunanayake began an intervention directed at a Minister, indicating that the Minister or ministry had themselves made a recommendation. The excerpt is incomplete, so no specific proposal, question, or policy issue can be determined from the available text.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF
AI summary Hon. Ravi Karunanayake briefly requested a few seconds to speak. No substantive policy position, proposal, or question was stated in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF
AI summary Ravi Karunanayake criticized government micromanagement of private-sector competition, arguing that forcing CPC to take Rs. 8.5 million in shares would deter companies seeking to retain control. He warned against inconsistent policy signals and said such an approach could leave the Trade Minister attempting to import rice without funds.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary D.V. Chanaka questioned alleged government criticism of Derana TV and Aruna newspaper over reports on police clearance procedures, arguing that two Ministers had given conflicting positions and tabling a Moratumulla Police Station form listing recommendations from the Public Security Committee Chair and Grama Niladhari as requirements. He said action should not be taken against media when the reported procedure matched information from the responsible Minister, and contrasted this with past publications by the JVP’s Lanka newspaper. Turning to the Energy Ministry, he asked how the Government planned to bring in a refinery investor without first separating and valuing the CPC and the refinery, and sought details on the Mannar 50 MW wind project, including who initiated it, allocated land, conducted feasibility work and prepared the RFP.
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary Kumara Jayakody contrasted past and current electricity procurement prices, stating that a previous 50 MW project was secured at just over 4 cents while two 50 MW units are now at just over 3 cents. He emphasized the lower current pricing as a point of comparison in the debate.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. D.V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D.V. Chanaka argued that recent renewable energy projects being claimed by the Government, including the 50 MW Mannar project and Siyambalanduwa solar project, were largely initiated, tendered, evaluated, or signed under the previous administration. He said the Government’s role was limited in these cases and cautioned against taking credit for prior groundwork or for private sector investments. He also criticized the JVP’s past opposition to hydropower projects such as Uma Oya, claiming it harmed the power sector by obstructing low-cost electricity generation.
- The Hon. D. V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D. V. Chanaka argued that the halting of major power projects, including the Sampur coal plant and the fourth stage of Norochcholai, caused large financial losses and higher electricity costs, contributing to Sri Lanka’s energy and foreign exchange crises. He said rooftop and ground-mounted solar with battery storage should now be expanded, noting he had proposed such measures earlier, and defended a vocational training project linked to the Reggie Ranatunga Foundation as privately funded and provided free to the State. He questioned the proposed import of 1,700 diesel cabs for the public sector in light of Sri Lanka’s renewable energy and carbon-neutral commitments, and urged the Government to develop offshore wind potential in the Mannar basin to reduce electricity bills.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson suspended the Committee of the whole Parliament proceedings for lunch until 1.00 p.m. Upon resumption, she called on Hon. Gamini Rathnayake and allotted him 10 minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law - Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister clarified that applicants for Police Clearance Certificates do not require any recommendation or approval from a Public Security Committee Chairman. He said a Grama Niladhari certification is sought only if an issue arises, while routine residence verification is handled by the relevant police officer through the Grama Niladhari. He stated that any contrary advice from officials is incorrect and reiterated the subject Minister’s earlier position.
Law & Order Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Hon. Deputy Chairperson asked the Hon. Deputy Minister to conclude his remarks, indicating that the point being made had been understood.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Watagala objected to the tabling of what he described as a misleading document, stating that a request from the Moratuwa Police listing Public Security Committee Chairmen may be a directory but is not connected to Police Clearance requirements. He urged Members not to mislead the public by presenting such documents as evidence for unrelated claims.
- The Hon. D. V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary Hon. D. V. Chanaka said he takes full responsibility for a document he tabled and intends to release it to the media. He urged that if media institutions are to be summoned before the Ethics and Privileges Committee, the relevant Minister should also be summoned. He also alleged unlawful large-scale transfers at the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation and CPSTL through trade union influence at Muthurajawela and called on the Minister of Power to stop them immediately.
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary The Hon. Sunil Watagala challenged the authenticity of a document tabled by Hon. Chanaka, stating that his copy appeared to be a “Telephone Directory of Public Security Committee Chairmen” with “Moratuwa Police” handwritten on it. He objected to presenting such material in Parliament and urged that allegedly fake documents not be brought before the House.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson instructed members not to continue arguing on the matter and moved the proceedings to the next speaker. Hon. R. M. Gamini Rathnayake was then given 10 minutes to speak.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. R. M. Gamini Rathnayake JJB
AI summary During the Energy Ministry estimates debate, R. M. Gamini Rathnayake criticized a former Deputy Minister over an alleged unpaid CEB electricity bill linked to a 2019 event. He said the Government had abandoned previous plans to restructure the CEB into 12 companies and instead, through the Sri Lanka Electricity (Amendment) Act, would operate it under four state companies while protecting employees, noting voluntary retirement applications and secured jobs. He argued that future energy policy would shift away from costly fossil fuels toward renewables, targeting 70 percent renewable electricity by 2030 and addressing projected demand growth through more transparent procurement and long-term planning.
- The Hon. D. V. Chanaka SLPP
AI summary D. V. Chanaka rejected allegations relating to a 2018 wedding, stating that any security lighting for presidential protection was generator-powered and paid for, and noting that he only became a Deputy Minister in September 2022. He argued that the previous administration took office amid severe power cuts and fuel queues and later returned state institutions to profitability, and defended the President’s use of the term “papisi.”
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. Harsha de Silva questioned whether the 2025 amendments to the Electricity Act had reversed the intended unbundling of the CEB and weakened prospects for private investment, governance reform, and tariff reduction. He asked for clarity on the restructuring master plan, expert input, due diligence, timelines, and accountability, citing opposition from engineers and concerns over entities such as LTL Holdings. He argued that Budget allocations for transmission and sector development fall far short of the stated USD 5 billion investment need, and questioned the cost implications of high-interest external borrowing. He proposed using part of additional fuel tax revenue to create a dedicated fund to subsidize solar PV storage batteries.
- The Hon. S. M. Marikkar SJB
AI summary Hon. S. M. Marikkar criticised the Government’s energy policy, alleging that electricity and fuel pricing decisions overstate losses, protect institutional profits, and pass costs to consumers despite CEB profits and the legal role of the PUCSL in tariff adjustments. He raised concerns over electricity sector reform appointments, blackout follow-up measures, LNG and battery tenders, solar buyback policy, and alleged irregularities in a Trincomalee solar project linked to ministerial influence. He called for lower electricity and fuel costs, grace periods before power disconnections, progress on the Trincomalee oil tanks, transparency in anti-drug operations, and fulfilment of Government promises on taxes, fuel, food, education and health.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Upali Pannilage - Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment JJB
AI summary The Minister said the Government’s energy policy prioritizes energy security by expanding domestic renewable sources, particularly solar, wind and biomass, while managing the economic burden of petroleum imports and rising electricity demand. He outlined measures including EV charging infrastructure, modernization of the Sapugaskanda refinery, rehabilitation of the Trincomalee tank farm, and fuel price reductions linked to global prices and institutional efficiency. He criticized past petroleum and electricity sector management, stating that new solar and wind procurement has reduced unit costs, with about 700 MW of solar added to the grid and 150 MW of wind tendered.
- The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB
AI summary Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri criticised the Government’s energy sector management, alleging contradictions in the appointment of the Energy Minister and irregularities in wind power and battery-plus-solar tenders, including claims that procurement conditions favoured Chinese interests and excluded local consortia. He argued that promised reductions in electricity and fuel prices had not materialised and demanded that the Minister state when and by how much those prices would be reduced. He also raised a procedural concern as a COPE member, saying the summoning of a private entity without an Auditor-General’s report was contrary to Standing Orders and that any suspected wrongdoing should instead be referred to law enforcement or anti-corruption authorities.
- The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper sought clarification on the President’s reported remarks after meeting Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi MPs, asking whether references to “outdated” political solutions implied changes to devolution, the Thirteenth Amendment, or a new constitutional framework. In relation to the Energy Votes, he questioned the Government’s readiness for electric vehicle infrastructure, distinguishing between slow mobile and AC chargers and the need for public DC fast chargers. He asked how many functional DC fast chargers exist, whether regulations and expressway coverage plans are finalized, and proposed standards for connectors, uptime, locations, payments, tariffs, and an app-based availability system to support EV adoption and decarbonization goals.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Member that their allotted speaking time had ended.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper proposed constructing a secondary dam across the Gal Oya reservoir at Senanayake Samudra in Ampara to collect surplus water, improve canal management, and support a solar-powered repumping system. He argued that the system could reintroduce water into irrigation networks during droughts and also contribute to power generation, and requested attention to the proposal.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary Hon. K. Ilankumaran was called to speak and informed that he had nine minutes for his remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. K. Ilankumaran JJB
AI summary Hon. K. Ilankumaran said the Government had improved power and fuel infrastructure in the Northern Province, including establishing oil storage at Kankesanthurai, preparing rail-based fuel transport, and setting up a fuel station in Neduntivu through the local Co-operative Society. He outlined renewable energy measures for island communities, including wind and solar installations in Nainativu, Analaitivu and Neduntivu, and said further wind farm approvals around Mannar would be restricted following public protests, with future projects directed to less populated areas such as Poonakary. He also referred to studies on electric fishing craft and the rollout of EV charging points, stating that these initiatives were part of the Government’s development approach for the North.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Member that they had about two minutes remaining to conclude their remarks.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. K. Ilankumaran JJB
AI summary Hon. K. Ilankumaran said Tamil culture places importance on integrity and responsibility, and criticized unnamed individuals for spreading confusion without self-clarity. He stated that such provocations would be ignored while continuing their work.
Religion & Culture Full speech → - The Hon. K. Ilankumaran JJB
AI summary Hon. K. Ilankumaran warned against political actors exploiting communal divisions and urged them not to reignite tensions that harm the public. He called for Tamil, Sinhala, and Muslim communities to work together for ethnic harmony and national development, contrasting such unity with divisive rhetoric.
Ethnic Reconciliation & Devolution Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary A Point of Order was raised without any further substantive remarks, proposals, or questions recorded in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson recognized Hon. Archchuna to raise a Point of Order and invited him to state it.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna raised a Point of Order citing Standing Orders on imputing improper motives and relevance to the subject under debate. He questioned why Hon. Ilankumaran was allegedly allowed to speak outside the Power and Energy debate without interruption, contrasting it with his own earlier interruption, and asked the Chair to explain the application of the rules.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj JJB
AI summary Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj briefly rose on a Point of Order. No substantive issue, question, or proposal is recorded in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson invited Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj to state his Point of Order during the proceedings.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Kitnan Selvaraj JJB
AI summary Kitnan Selvaraj’s contribution was expunged on the order of the Chair. The only remaining remark indicates he was responding to or characterizing another Member’s speech, with no substantive argument or proposal preserved in the record.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson ruled that no Point of Order arose from the preceding intervention. He then called Hon. (Dr.) Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam to speak, allocating him nine minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam ITAK
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam responded to Hon. Nizam Kariapper’s question regarding a meeting held with the President the previous day. He stated that, regardless of media reports, the President had listened carefully and indicated that a future process would be established to discuss a needed political solution.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Geetha Herath, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary During the Budget debate on the Ministry of Power and Energy Vote, Mrs. Geetha Herath outlined reforms under the amended Electricity Act, including the unbundling of Ceylon Electricity Board functions into four fully state-owned entities for generation, transmission, distribution, and system operation, while assuring protection of employee rights and consumer interests. She said the Government is promoting renewable energy and competitive electricity markets within a state-owned framework, alongside investment in energy security measures such as refinery expansion, development of the Trincomalee tank farm, EV charging stations, fuel storage expansion, and modernization of the Colombo Port–Kolonnawa pipeline. She also noted that the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation has returned to profitability and that the Ministry’s initiatives are aimed at reliable supply, reduced import dependence, and economic development.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan DTNA
AI summary Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan asked what immediate action the CEB is taking to provide delayed service connections for consumers who have already paid, and urged that paper electricity bills be resumed in rural areas such as Wanni and Mullaitivu until digital access and literacy improve. He welcomed the suspension of the Mannar wind protest following assurances and a Gazette decision against siting wind projects within Mannar town limits, and requested that wind farms not be placed in urban or peri-urban Mannar, proposing instead utility-scale solar on barren lands. He also called for measures to reduce outages caused by salt deposition, installment plans or subsidies for unaffordable connection fees, and defended the role of clergy in raising civic concerns on behalf of communities.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam ITAK
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam rose on a Point of Order. No substantive argument, proposal, or policy issue is recorded in the provided extract.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam ITAK
AI summary Dr. Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam stated that resettled communities continue to face unresolved issues. He also responded briefly to references made by other Members, including a remark concerning the Tamil Arasu Kachchi, saying his party would manage its own affairs.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Thanura Dissanayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Thanura Dissanayake said energy policy should ensure affordable, reliable and quality supply, supported by a publicly centred institutional structure. He stated that the Government revised an earlier draft law by restructuring the sector into four core State-owned entities for generation, transmission, distribution and system operation, while emphasizing the need for stronger transmission and distribution investment, particularly to integrate renewables and improve rural service. He argued for cost-reflective utility management with transparent Treasury-funded targeted subsidies, and outlined priorities including renewable expansion, grid-scale storage, green hydrogen and power-to-X technologies.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna stated that he had been allocated 14 minutes to speak. No substantive policy position, question, or proposal was made in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna urged the Government to release Tamil political prisoners, citing the death of Anandhasuthakaran and the hardship faced by affected families. During the Power and Energy Ministry Vote, he tabled documents alleging corruption in a 2024 solar power project in Kilinochchi and Poonakary, including claims of facilitation payments, land misuse, and the creation of a new company after legal issues over EPF/ETF payments. He also raised concerns about public statements on road development, called for Puttalam Hospital to be made at least a Teaching Hospital, and challenged the President to act on the corruption dossier he had submitted.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Anton Jayakody - Deputy Minister of Environment JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody outlined Sri Lanka’s energy resource potential, including hydropower, wind, solar, storage materials, and possible offshore gas, while arguing that past governments failed to anticipate global energy and climate trends and mismanaged power planning. He said Budget 2026 would initiate hydrogen-related work and prioritize grid-scale battery storage, including proposed private participation for about 160 MW/640 MWh, to manage evening peak demand and support renewable integration. He also noted that gas indications in the Cauvery Basin require transparent assessment of economic viability.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara argued that past opposition to energy infrastructure, power plants and CEB restructuring contributed to current electricity sector problems. He questioned the costs of the Sobadanavi and Sahasdanavi projects, citing figures he said showed high capacity and unit charges, and asked for clear timelines on converting diesel-based thermal plants to LNG. He also raised concerns over a battery energy storage tender, alleging that one bidder’s tax-excluded bid appeared to anticipate a tax exemption gazette issued around the tender opening, and called for scrutiny of possible insider information.
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary Hon. Kumara Jayakody clarified that, before opening a bid, an addendum had been issued to all bidders requiring submissions both with and without tax. He stated that bidders were duly notified and action was taken accordingly, but that the relevant part was later removed by the Presiding Member.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara requested that, if the referenced item or document was available, it be brought and shown to the House.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary Kumara Jayakody noted that the document under consideration was not the original version and that an addendum had subsequently been presented. He requested that the addendum be examined.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara requested that the relevant Cabinet Paper be tabled in Parliament, stating that it was not currently available to Members. He said this would allow Parliament to decide on and discuss the matter.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary An addendum was presented for tabling.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara alleged irregularities in a tender process, noting that while most companies quoted with tax, one quoted without tax on the same day a Gazette was issued, suggesting prior knowledge of the tax change. He called on the President, as Minister of Finance, to investigate who was responsible if the Government is committed to opposing theft and fraud. He also referred to the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation earning Rs. 27 billion in the first six months of 2024.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara objected to being limited to two minutes, stating that he had more to say. He argued that part of his allotted speaking time had already been taken and sought additional time to continue.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Dayasiri Jayasekara questioned the Government’s fuel pricing and revenue management, stating that CPC-related figures had fallen from Rs. 27 billion in the first six months of 2024 to Rs. 17 billion in the same period of 2025 while pump prices had not reflected larger declines in international fuel indices. He alleged a lack of transparency in the monthly fuel pricing formula, windfall gains to connected parties, and irregular lubricant sales causing losses, and requested investigations into these matters. Citing the Auditor General’s 2023 report, he said recoveries had not been made for delayed deliveries, off-specification stocks, and shipping short-landings, including alleged dues of US$ 4.39 million and US$ 27 million to the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara raised concerns about the cadre and recruitment arrangements at CPSTL, noting that the entity is wholly state-owned and subject to oversight by the Department of Public Enterprises. Referring to a letter from the Ministry Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, which he tabled for the Library, he argued that CPSTL cannot recruit staff at its discretion and requested the Secretary to examine the matter.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe - Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development JJB
AI summary The Minister said power sector reforms are intended to reduce corruption, waste and costs, improve efficiency, lower electricity tariffs and production costs, and strengthen export competitiveness. He stated that the Government had completed long-delayed reforms within a year by establishing six companies fully owned by the CEB to cover generation, system operation, transmission, pension and benefit funds, and residual services, with further strengthening planned next year. He also said the unit cost of electricity had been reduced from Rs. 40 to Rs. 12, and clarified that LTL’s ownership comprised 63 per cent CEB, 27 per cent Teckpro, and 10 per cent held through an employee trust.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe described changes to the shareholding structure of LTL, stating that part of the CEB’s stake was transferred to West Coast Power to settle CEB debt and that concerns arose because the transfer was not made through the stock exchange. He said a later attempt to list about 22 per cent of shares to raise funds was stopped because the State’s 51 per cent holding had to be protected. He added that the proposal was for the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation to take 20 per cent, and that the IPO was halted after LTL indicated it could provide the required funds.
- The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe briefly noted to Hon. Ajith P. Perera that he had two more minutes remaining, apparently referring to the time available for a parliamentary contribution. No substantive policy argument, proposal, or question was made in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera questioned whether, alongside transferring shares to the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, the Government would also proceed with an initial public offering. He argued that listing shares is a democratic measure that enables citizens to purchase shares, and sought the Minister’s position on allowing public participation.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Wasantha Samarasinghe clarified that the issue was not whether the CPC agreed to receive shares or whether others agreed to provide them. He stated that if the requested 20 per cent share allocation to the CPC is granted, it would be acceptable, and that further increases could be considered without obstruction.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera sought clarification from another Member, asking whether they were not opposed to the matter under discussion.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe JJB
AI summary Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that while he was not opposed in principle, he had not agreed at the time to proceed with a stock market listing. He highlighted shareholding disparities at LTL, noting that most of its roughly 600 employees, particularly those joining after 2017, have no shares while about 15 employees receive substantial returns, including an estimated Rs. 1.3 billion from 2024 profits. He said the Government had identified these issues, was intervening to resolve them, and had restructured the CEB and acted against corruption as part of institutional reform.
- The Hon. Muhammad Faizal JJB
AI summary Hon. Muhammad Faizal raised a point of order. No further substantive argument, proposal, or question was recorded in the excerpt provided.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Muhammad Faizal JJB
AI summary Hon. Muhammad Faizal objected to doctors linking his name to the Puttalam Hospital debate, arguing that they lacked accurate knowledge of the hospital’s status. He stated that Puttalam Hospital had been upgraded to a Base Hospital Type A on 22 April 2002 and indicated that evidence existed to support this claim.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe briefly thanked the Presiding Member for the opportunity to speak and expressed the expectation that he would be allocated his full 11 or 12 minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna briefly rose to raise a point of order, asking pardon from another Member before proceeding. No substantive issue, proposal, or question was stated in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Raising a point under Standing Order 92(2)(a), Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna questioned the relevance or procedural basis of another Member’s remarks. He challenged the Member to identify the point being made and referred to the need to understand the Standing Orders.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Muhammad Faizal JJB
AI summary Muhammad Faizal briefly raised a point of personal reference, stating that his name had been mentioned. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or demand was presented in the intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna urges Members whose names have been mentioned to read the relevant material and, with the Speaker’s permission, respond in the House. The remark concerns parliamentary procedure for making a reply when a Member is referred to in debate.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe criticized the Government for failing to reduce fuel and electricity costs as promised, while urging it to acknowledge the continuing contribution of the Mahaweli hydropower project to the national grid. He called for stronger support for solar power, including possible solar units for poor households, and argued that high fuel dependence keeps electricity costs unsustainable. He questioned tender conditions for a 50 MW wind power project, saying they appeared to exclude local bidders, and defended the pricing context of the Adani 500 MW project while challenging the Government to procure equivalent capacity with transmission at a lower cost.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ruwan Wijeweera JJB
AI summary Hon. Ruwan Wijeweera, speaking during the debate on the Ministry of Power and Energy expenditure head, noted that Opposition members had offered numerous policy suggestions on energy and wider economic development. He questioned why those proposals were not implemented when the Opposition previously held power, framing his intervention as a challenge to their record in government.
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera rose on a point of order. No substantive argument, proposal, or policy issue was stated in the excerpt provided.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera, invoking Standing Order 92, asserted that major energy and development achievements such as the Mahaweli project, solar initiatives, tender processes, and near-universal electrification were delivered by his side and not by the JVP. His intervention sought to correct or challenge claims regarding responsibility for those projects.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ruwan Wijeweera JJB
AI summary Hon. Ruwan Wijeweera rejected allegations of government inaction, stating that poverty reduction and renewable energy development are being pursued while protecting media freedom. He contrasted the Government’s position with past attacks on journalists and media institutions, and argued that critics lack credibility on media freedom. He cited overstaffing, political recruitment, and tariff-related political decisions as causes of CEB losses, and said the Government is allocating recurrent and capital funds to secure energy supply and expand renewables. He also referred to IRENA projections and commentary on green hydrogen to argue that Sri Lanka has significant potential in solar, wind, and future renewable energy carriers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB
AI summary Amila Prasad argued that Sri Lanka’s main development constraint is the energy crisis and called for cheap, reliable supply through greater private participation and market competition in the electricity sector. He questioned the Government’s reported CEB profit projections, asking for clarification on quarterly financial volatility and possible reliance on costly diesel IPPs, and asked what concrete steps had been taken to reduce the 30 per cent share of oil and coal generation. He proposed modernizing the grid through private investment while retaining state ownership, selling non-core assets if needed, expanding hydropower and small hydro through improved water management, and easing regulatory barriers to attract investment in renewable energy.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kanchana Welipitiya JJB
AI summary Kanchana Welipitiya defended the Government’s power and energy programme, arguing that stalled infrastructure and energy projects are being restarted and implemented while maintaining public ownership. He said the Ceylon Electricity Board would be restructured into four state-owned companies instead of being privatized, and reiterated the Government’s aim to reduce electricity tariffs by 30 per cent. He cited a new wind power procurement price of US cents 3.77 per unit compared with a previous 8.26 cents, and said future plans include meeting projected electricity demand growth, green hydrogen and ammonia production, transport electrification, and related legislation. He requested support for approving the Ministry’s Head of Expenditure for the coming year.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Dr. Elayathamby Srinath welcomed the Budget allocations for the Ministry of Power and Energy and focused on electricity access issues in Batticaloa and other rural areas. He called for assistance schemes to reduce the cost of new connections for poor households, higher support for extension lines, faster provision of transformers and three-phase supply, and an upfront assessment process for SMEs. He also raised CEB staffing shortages in the Eastern Province, requesting priority for local recruitment, and asked that tariff issues for battery-backed solar and delays in rooftop solar approvals be reviewed to support renewable energy uptake and livelihoods.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath ITAK
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath requested an additional minute of speaking time from the Presiding Member.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Anil Jayantha - Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning JJB
AI summary The Minister responded to Opposition criticisms on the Ministry of Power, arguing that Sri Lanka’s main electricity challenge is demand management and affordability rather than insufficient supply. He said CEB profits and tariff movements resulted from PUCSL’s regulatory methodology and updated cost projections, not misrepresentation, citing several tariff revisions from 2024 to 2025. He outlined the Government’s approach to electricity reform, including amendments to the Electricity Act, clearer roles in generation and distribution, controlled private participation, and rejection of high-cost renewable procurement proposals. He also noted a Rs. 23,100 million allocation for the Ministry, mainly for transmission and distribution, renewables, nuclear studies, and regularizing prior off-Budget commitments.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Arkam Ilyas - Deputy Minister of Power JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Arkam Ilyas outlined the Government’s policy to develop a competitive, consumer-focused and renewable-oriented power sector, arguing that affordable tariffs require competitive generation procurement, grid upgrades and storage rather than higher renewable tariffs. He said transmission projects and battery storage tenders are underway, including major 400 kV and 220 kV lines, and that EV charging infrastructure, smart metering, time-of-use tariffs and rooftop solar integration will be expanded from 2026. He stated that the Government aims to reduce electricity bills by 30 per cent over three years through sustainable cost reductions, while also planning Mannar basin hydrocarbon exploration tenders in early 2026 with international partners.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne - Deputy Minister of Digital Economy JJB
AI summary Eranga Weeraratne said Sri Lanka’s energy-sector restructuring under the amended Electricity Act, including separate entities for generation, transmission, distribution and system operation, is intended to improve efficiency and lower costs. He linked reliable electricity supply to the digital economy, arguing that AI data centres and proposed “data embassies” require 24/7 redundant power and grid resilience, and that Sri Lanka’s location on submarine cable routes creates investment opportunities. He said the Government is pursuing dual-supply regions, smart grids, smart meters, sector digitization, and a power-wheeling framework to enable renewable self-generation and support data-centre-related foreign investment.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha reviewed the development of Sri Lanka’s electricity sector, arguing that delays to major projects such as Sampur and Uma Oya contributed to higher generation costs and tariffs. He urged the Ministry to reconsider the proposed large LNG FSRU, proposing instead a smaller supply arrangement using LNG from Cochin, and called for prompt action on BESS approvals and the 160 MW storage tender. He criticized tender conditions for the Sapugaskanda 100 MW project as restrictive to capable local firms, questioned the impact and cost of CEB restructuring and voluntary retirement plans, and requested attention to pending retiree pension increments. He also defended LTL’s commercial record and overseas operations, arguing that it should be supported with suitable governance rather than constrained by inappropriate procurement rules.
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody - Minister of Energy JJB
AI summary Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody said CPC’s financial position had been mischaracterised, distinguishing debt from LC/indemnity instruments and noting an estimated Rs. 32 billion profit by October. He outlined progress on the India HVDC interconnection, Trincomalee oil tank farm, and major North-East transmission projects, while stressing that import/export pricing and transmission costs must be carefully assessed. He said the Government rejected the Adani wind proposal because the quoted USD 8.26 cents per kWh excluded unresolved transmission costs and was above competitive benchmarks, and that renewable and grid projects are being accelerated to reduce generation costs. He detailed recent electricity tariff reductions for domestic consumers, said about 70 per cent of customers under 90 units are supplied below cost through cross-subsidy, and argued that Sri Lanka’s household and industrial electricity prices have become comparatively competitive in the region.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary On behalf of the Minister of Finance, an amendment was moved at the 2026 Committee Stage to revise allocations under Head 119, Ministry of Energy, for operational and development activities. The changes transferred funds from the Department of National Budget to the Energy Ministry and shifted allocations related to the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board and Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council to the Ministry of Science and Technology under Gazette Extraordinary No. 2458/65. The revised recurrent and capital expenditure amounts for Programme 01 and Programme 02 were put to the House and agreed to.
- The Hon. Kumara Jayakody JJB
AI summary Moved that the Committee report progress and seek leave to sit again. The motion was put to the House and agreed to.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- 12 Procedural Regulations: Sri Lanka Electricity Act - Minister of Energy 1 speeches
- 13 Adjournment Parliament Adjournment 2 speeches