Sitting of Wednesday, 26 November 2025
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 22993 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
Order of business
Speeches load per item. Summaries shown here are AI-generated and labelled; verbatim text is on each speech page.
- 1 Opening Speaker's Announcements: New Methodology on Placing Private Members' Motions for Debate 1 speeches
- 2 Papers Papers Presented: Orders and Regulations 1 speeches
- 3 Petitions Petitions: Acceptance of Petition from K.M. Manawasinghe Bandara 1 speeches
- 4 Oral question Oral Question: Central Bank Bond Scam: Impact on the Government (Q.116/2024) 11 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Question: National Schools and Provincial Schools: Vacancies for Labourers (Q.563/2025) 7 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Questions: Second Round - Colombo-Mannar Train Service and Related Questions 11 speeches
- 7 Procedural Ministerial Statement: Minimization of Unemployment 4 speeches
- 8 Papers Papers Presented: Microfinance and Credit Regulatory Authority Bill 1 speeches
- 9 Debate Debate: Appropriation Bill, 2026 - Committee Stage, Sixteenth Allotted Day 157 speeches
- The Hon. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi moved the customary token reduction of Rs. 10 from the recurrent and capital expenditure under the relevant Heads during the Committee Stage debate on the Appropriation Bill, 2026. He raised concerns over fuel and kerosene concessions for multi-day vessel and outboard motor craft owners, restrictions affecting beach-seine operations, protests by fishing communities, and hardship caused by the decline of related industries such as dried shark, Maldive fish and salmon processing. He stated that he wore black in solidarity with protesting fishers and criticized the Government for not resolving these issues.
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe briefly observed that Members, including Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, were dressed in black. The remark appears to refer to a collective or symbolic display in the Chamber, without elaborating on its purpose.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi SJB
AI summary Hon. Dilip Wedaarachchi said promised fisheries fuel concessions, levy removals, and duty reductions had not been implemented, and proposed supplying diesel to about 7,000 multi-day boats at a Rs. 150 per litre concession through designated harbours. He urged the Government not to proceed with proposed bans affecting mechanized beach-seine support systems and Ambalangoda light-coarse operations, instead calling for controlled, stakeholder-based regulation to protect livelihoods. He also requested revival of traditional value-added fish processing through concessional salt access, operationalization and staffing of inland aquaculture centres, procurement of fast medical evacuation boats for fishers, and renewed attention to earlier Blue Economy planning.
- The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF
AI summary A Point of Order was raised noting that the Votes of the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development are scheduled for 3 December. Concern was expressed that four Questions under Standing Order 27(2) had remained unanswered for over a month, making it difficult to address them at the Committee Stage, and a request was made for the relevant Ministers to provide responses before that date.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary The Minister said the fisheries sector is being treated as a key area for economic recovery, with emphasis on modernizing fleets, expanding deep-sea activity, and shifting toward aquaculture, mariculture, and value addition. He noted past fuel support of Rs. 2.3 billion during the crisis, but said permanent subsidies are a broader policy issue and that fishers should become more productive rather than dependent on transfers. He outlined Budget 2026 allocations for harbour development, inland fisheries, life-saving equipment, post-harvest loss reduction, satellite communications, and projects in Kankesanthurai and Myliddy. He also addressed coastal protection, local canned fish production, salt supply concerns, a national fisheries exhibition, and ongoing efforts to resolve beach-seine-related issues around Negombo.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Kathiravelu Shanmugam Kugathasan ITAK
AI summary Hon. Kathiravelu Shanmugam Kugathasan argued that the 2026 allocation to the Digital Economy Ministry is insufficient for Sri Lanka’s stated digital transformation goals and called for a whole-of-government approach rather than piecemeal digitization. Citing examples from South Korea, India, Japan, the United States and China, he urged integrated digital public infrastructure, security-by-design for SLUDI, stronger central coordination, policy stability, and investment in broadband, skills and digital inclusion. He proposed a four-pillar roadmap covering governance and accountability, trust and inclusion, interoperable public services, and economic acceleration through infrastructure, FinTech clarity and global expertise, with the aim of achieving a USD 15 billion digital economy by 2030.
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne - Deputy Minister of Digital Economy JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister outlined the Digital Economy Ministry’s 2026 Budget-related programme, citing over Rs. 25.5 billion in investment and a Cabinet-approved Digital Economy Blueprint to coordinate digitization across government. He highlighted expanded GovPay services, proposed removal of payment gateway commissions for government e-payments from 1 January 2026, a LankaQR relaunch with temporary zero merchant fees, and use of digital payment histories for credit scoring. He also reported progress on government cloud modernization, digitized civil certificates for overseas Sri Lankans, President’s Fund applications, the JICA-supported digital terrestrial television transition, rural connectivity towers, school connectivity and broadband support for low-income students. He announced a 5G spectrum auction scheduled for 23 December targeting over Rs. 9 billion, with measures to support competition and infrastructure sharing.
- The Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana NDF
AI summary Rohitha Abeygunawardhana recalled the President’s campaign pledge to provide fishers with SMS alerts on fish aggregation zones, sea temperatures and weather conditions, similar to systems he said were used in India. He asked the Fisheries Minister whether such alerts are being sent and to identify the harbours or multi-day vessels receiving them, asserting that fishers have not received the promised service. He argued that the fisheries community, like farmers and other groups, had been misled by unfulfilled election promises.
- Mr. Chairman
AI summary The Chair informs the member speaking that they have two minutes remaining, indicating the time limit for the ongoing speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana NDF
AI summary Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana said the Opposition’s role during the Ministry’s Budget Head debate was to acknowledge positive measures while warning the Government where it was failing, particularly in relation to fisheries. He recalled fisheries-related initiatives under former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, including “Diyawara Gammana,” and urged the current Minister to heed the concerns raised and implement promises made to fishing communities. He said the Government should correct mistakes rather than repeat them, and called for the responsibilities and commitments referenced in the President’s speech to be fulfilled.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran ITAK
AI summary Hon. Thurairasa Ravikaran, speaking during the Committee Stage debate on the Fisheries Ministry allocation, raised concerns about illegal fishing practices, weak enforcement, and Indian trawler incursions affecting northern fishers, particularly in Mullaitivu and the Vanni District. He cited prohibited methods under the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Act, including blast fishing, light-assisted fishing, trawling, and illegal small-mesh nets, and questioned whether the Government has data on how much of Mullaitivu’s 2024 catch came from such practices. While welcoming 2026 Budget proposals for fisheries development, he urged stronger action to protect traditional fishers’ livelihoods, marine resources, and Sri Lanka’s maritime sovereignty.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar responded to points raised by Hon. Ravikaran on fisheries issues in the Northern Sea, noting that Tamil Nadu trawler intrusions severely affect local fishers and require broader action beyond Tamil MPs speaking out. He also referred to illegal and destructive fishing methods, suggesting that those responsible are known, and offered to work with Hon. Ravikaran to support measures to curb such practices.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Thanura Dissanayake JJB
AI summary Hon. Thanura Dissanayake outlined the Government’s digital transformation agenda during the Budget Head debate, emphasizing the need to align policy, infrastructure and human capital with global technological change. He cited initiatives including GovPay, rural connectivity expansion through 100 communication towers annually, data protection reforms, Digital Economy Month, and a target of a US$15 billion digital economy by 2030. He also referred to power sector reforms to support data centres, startup and fintech events, the planned rollout of Sri Lanka’s Unified Digital Identity by Q3 2026, and digital systems for transport payments and President’s Fund access through Divisional Secretariats.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Chathura Galappaththi SJB
AI summary Hon. Chathura Galappaththi emphasized that achieving a US$15 billion digital economy requires moving beyond basic digitization to full digitalization of state processes, with all ministries aligned under a common vision. He specifically urged end-to-end digitization of public procurement within the next year to address corruption concerns, and cited stalled digital initiatives in the justice and railway sectors as evidence that ministerial interest is not translating into administrative action. He also called for capacity building across ministry IT units, procurement rules that allow capable SME technology firms to bid, stronger commercialization support for startups, and a targeted strategy with tax incentives to attract foreign venture capital and entrepreneurs to Sri Lanka.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Ramanathan Archchuna Independent Group 17 - Jaffna
AI summary Ramanathan Archchuna raised a Point of Order under Standing Order 92(2), asking why an urgent Question of Privilege he submitted under Standing Order 29(1) regarding an alleged threat against him had not been approved. He also requested an explanation for the delay and then conveyed birthday wishes to Veluppillai Prabhakaran.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva supported the development of digital public infrastructure and referred to the IPS “State of the Economy 2025” report, but urged that digitalisation be designed with safeguards for democracy, human rights, transparency and Sri Lanka’s post-war context. He called for wider public consultation, including a Parliamentary Select Committee, and asked how the Digital Sri Lanka programme would reconcile with the Online Safety Act and the Personal Data Protection Act. He criticised the lack of publicly available Sinhala and Tamil documentation on the programme and requested inclusive communication before implementation. He also questioned the reported tender for 15 million pre-printed polycarbonate ID cards, asking whether such a quantity and format are necessary if the country is moving to a digital identity system.
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Eranga Weeraratne clarified that although a tender referred to up to 15 million identity cards, the actual requirement is only five million. He said physical cards remain necessary because systems cannot yet universally accept digital-only IDs, including for Police identity checks. He added that the tender has not closed and has been extended to mid-December to amend the quantity to five million.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB
AI summary The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva raised concerns about a Ministry website document showing a procurement figure of 15 million and questioned whether that figure had been changed. He argued that procurement processes must be transparent and said the matter would need to be examined, emphasizing that tender details should not be altered arbitrarily.
- The Hon. Chairman procedural
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson called on Hon. Ravindra Bandara to speak and allotted him ten minutes.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ravindra Bandara
AI summary Hon. Ravindra Bandara said Sri Lanka must build a production-oriented economy by increasing investment in science, technology and R&D, noting that past spending was very low compared with regional and advanced economies. He outlined Budget allocations including Rs. 21 billion for R&D across ministries, measures to reduce potato imports through seed development and technology, and Rs. 1,200 million for commercialization of research. He highlighted planned initiatives in green hydrogen, green ammonia, rooftop solar grid control, data centres and foreign investment, and said forthcoming 2026 legislation would establish national research and commercialization institutions to align priorities and oversight.
- The Hon. Namal Rajapaksa, Attorney-at-Law SLPP
AI summary Namal Rajapaksa questioned whether budget allocations for digitalization are being practically implemented, asking how much of the previous year’s Digital Economy Ministry allocation was spent on digitizing State and citizen services. He cited delays in building telecom towers and argued that accountability is needed before making further commitments on digitalization. He also criticized the Government’s fisheries policy, noting reported declines in inland and marine fisheries and alleging insufficient stocking of reservoirs with fish fingerlings despite earlier campaign promises to build the economy around the sea.
- The Hon. Namal Rajapaksa, Attorney-at-Law SLPP
AI summary Hon. Namal Rajapaksa criticized the Government’s fisheries policy, arguing that promised growth through the ocean economy has not materialized while imports of dried fish and Maldive fish have increased and exports of sea cucumber, crab and tuna have declined. He questioned the utilization of previous Budget allocations, including Rs. 200 million for sea cucumber farming, and said technology initiatives such as satellite-based fish locating systems have not been implemented despite available solutions. He argued that more than two million people dependent on fisheries are facing a worsening crisis due to reduced support, lack of engagement with small-scale and multi-day fishers, and politicization of cooperative structures, and called for clearer action to protect livelihoods and local production.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson informed the Member that only two minutes remained for their speech.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Namal Rajapaksa, Attorney-at-Law SLPP
AI summary Hon. Namal Rajapaksa argued that the Government’s promised fuel relief for the fisheries sector, including the stated Rs. 150 fuel relief, had not reached fishers despite rising fuel costs. He said required technology and implementation processes were lacking, and cited Department of Census and Statistics data to claim that previous Budget allocations had not translated into village-level outcomes, casting doubt on the implementation of the current year’s Budget promises.
- The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC SJB
AI summary Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper raised concerns about fisheries livelihoods in Trincomalee, urging the Fisheries Minister to meet 1,845 families affected by a cage fishing agreement with Global Ceylon Seafoods and to provide either alternative fishing opportunities or an alternative site for the company rather than cash relief. He also called for urgent action in Kalmunai and Karaithivu–Mavadippalli following early monsoon impacts, including bridge and railing works and dry-ration relief for affected fishers. Addressing the Digital Economy portfolio, he highlighted problems in immigration digitization, proposed a secure online mechanism to check travel bans, and called for better EV charging infrastructure and updated legal frameworks for international digital payments and taxation.
- The Hon. Rathna Gamage - Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Rathna Gamage outlined the Fisheries Ministry’s 2026 budget allocations, stating that nearly Rs. 15 billion, including funds through the Budget, restructuring support and Provincial Councils, would support harbour development, landing sites, distressed state entities and post-harvest loss reduction. He said the Government aims to modernize fisheries as a production-sector industry, improve fisher livelihoods, increase fish consumption toward nutritional targets, and expand value-added exports, while addressing inherited problems in harbours and state institutions. He also noted fuel assistance provided to fishers, planned investments in northern and eastern facilities, and increased funding for inland fisheries alongside initiatives such as the “Aqua Planet - Sri Lanka, International Expo 2025.”
- The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Sajith Premadasa called for a comprehensive new fisheries policy focused on sustainable stock management, fisher livelihoods, anti-IUU enforcement, digital monitoring systems, aquaculture, infrastructure, export value addition, and blue economy financing. He said the sector contributes only 0.9 per cent to GDP despite Sri Lanka’s large maritime and inland water resources, and urged the Government to deliver promised fuel relief to fishing communities while offering support for a successful national policy. He also outlined proposals to build a US$ 25–30 billion digital economy by 2030 through upgraded connectivity, cloud and data infrastructure, AI and IT skills development, district-level IT investment zones, digital ID, digital public services, and inter-agency data sharing.
- The Hon. G.G. Ponnambalam ACTC
AI summary G.G. Ponnambalam marked Prabhakaran’s birth anniversary and argued that political actors, including the JVP, have had to acknowledge Tamil nationalist history to engage with the North and East. He criticized fisheries policy in the North and East, saying post-war revival has been inadequate, Mayiliddy Harbour development has not benefited local small-scale fishers, Indian bottom trawling remains unresolved, and sea cucumber leases should prioritize local communities over politically connected outsiders. He urged the Fisheries Minister to ensure development first benefits war-affected local fishers and called for stronger action with India. He also proposed a holistic digital economy strategy for the North and East, citing Jaffna’s IT graduates, diaspora links, lower costs, land availability, and potential for tech parks, startups, and cross-border partnerships with South India.
- The Hon. Imran Maharoof (Presiding Member) SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof assumed the Chair as the Presiding Member.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi JJB
AI summary Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi defended the Government’s digital economy allocations and progress, citing completed physical implementation of GovPay, Lanka Government Network 2.0, Lanka Government Cloud 2.0, AI upgrades to the State Information Center, cybersecurity initiatives, and work on a National Data Exchange. He said the Government was open to further parliamentary and public discussion on digital transformation and Digital ID, while also noting progress on a National Science Policy and research commercialization. On fisheries, he argued that fuel prices had fallen compared with the previous administration and highlighted digital support for fishing vessels, satellite-based fish field intelligence, and a Beruwala slipway project intended to support boat owners and foreign exchange earnings.
- The Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Hon. Arjuna Sujeewa Senasinghe called for faster provision of fish-location technology to fishers and urged merit-based appointments and private-sector involvement in science and technology institutions to accelerate commercialization and avoid prolonged, outdated research. He proposed reviving and expanding the “Shilpa Sena” district exhibition programme to disseminate technology, including to rural youth and sectors such as agriculture. He also challenged Government claims on education funding, citing reductions in several capital allocations and student support programmes, and urged the Government to honour its education commitments or state openly if it cannot.
- The Hon. M.A.M. Thahir ACMC
AI summary Hon. M.A.M. Thahir urged the Government to allocate funds to rehabilitate and develop the Oluvil Harbour for fisheries, noting its importance to deep-sea vessel owners in Sainthamaruthu and Kalmunai and the potential benefit to more than 25,000 people. He said fishers affected by the 2024 floods and rough seas had still not received relief, and called for support during seasonal rough-sea periods, preservation facilities at Eastern landing sites, and delivery of long-promised landing sites in areas such as Kinniya. He also requested restoration of the non-functional Sainthamaruthu telecommunications tower and provision of satellite connectivity for deep-sea fishers to improve safety and reduce costly search-and-rescue operations.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M.A.M. Thahir ACMC
AI summary Hon. M.A.M. Thahir argued that digitalization should begin with practical access points such as schools, local authorities and Divisional Secretariats, ensuring smart classroom initiatives reach all students and the public is properly informed. He questioned how the previous year’s reported Rs. 3,000 million allocation for digitalization was spent and noted that local authority revenue functions such as stall rent, Stamp Duty and court fees remain undigitalized. He also raised concern that local authorities are spending large sums on private digital systems, calling for better coordination and accountability.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Stefanie Fernando JJB
AI summary Hon. Stefanie Fernando outlined government programmes to develop marine, inland and ornamental fisheries, including releasing up to 80 million fingerlings into tanks, canal and lagoon restoration, hatchery development, fish feed support, and expansion into mud crab, prawn, seaweed and cold-water ornamental fish production. She said NAQDA, NARA and other agencies are coordinating training, data-based planning, export facilitation, land access and environmental clearances, with particular initiatives in Nuwara Eliya and the North and East. She also referred to proposed life insurance and pension schemes for fishers, VMS and possible CCTV for multi-day vessels to address illicit activity concerns, and a partnership with Dialog to provide information on fishing grounds.
Agriculture Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Prof.) Chrishantha Abeysena - Minister of Science and Technology JJB
AI summary The Minister outlined the Ministry’s first-year work to develop and implement a national research and development policy across 14 institutions, with coordination across other ministries and approximately Rs. 21 billion in science and technology-related public allocations. He said national research priorities, expert committees, a common evaluation framework, a research management MIS, ethical governance mechanisms, and a commercialization policy framework are being developed to improve transparency, coordination, and outcomes. He also detailed the revival of the Vidatha programme, including Cabinet-approved strategic planning, increased allocations from Rs. 902.8 million in 2025 to Rs. 1,151 million, and plans to upgrade 73 resource centres into mini-incubation centres to support small industries in collaboration with relevant ministries.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Chithral Fernando, Attorney-at-Law SJB
AI summary Chithral Fernando proposed digitizing Parliament alongside the digital economy agenda, arguing that Hansards, Gazettes, and other parliamentary documents should be distributed electronically to reduce waste. He sought clarification on the Fisheries Ministry’s Rs. 100 million allocation for satellite-based oceanographic information, urging the Government to seek Indian ISRO support for systems such as NavIC and GAGAN to improve fisher safety, rescue coordination, and identification of fishing grounds. He also asked the Fisheries Minister whether a requested report on banning winches in stake-net fishing had been submitted, and called for a grace period while alternatives are developed. He further raised concerns over an alleged illegal rice import linked to a private entity using the name “United Nations Human Rights Organization,” calling for enforcement of licensing laws, release of the full audio recording, and clear answers regarding the relevant container and impact on local paddy farmers.
- The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB
AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof raised fisheries issues affecting Trincomalee, chiefly the licensed use of ring seine nets for tuna and the ambiguity in the “beyond seven nautical miles” condition, which he said leads to enforcement conflicts and many court cases. He requested amendments to licence conditions or, if ring seine use cannot continue, alternative training and technology support for affected fishing communities. He also sought payment of pending fuel and kerosene subsidies, permits for long-standing basket-trap fishers in the Kokkilai lagoon area, and relief and livelihood support for fishers affected by floods, seasonal income loss, housing needs, and children’s education.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Hector Appuhamy SJB
AI summary Hon. Hector Appuhamy urged more equitable allocations for fisheries, arguing that the Puttalam District and lagoon-based fisheries had been neglected despite their contribution to livelihoods and foreign exchange. He called for tax relief on boats, engines, nets, fuel and other inputs, improved disaster and emergency rescue systems including ambulance-type high-speed boats and helicopter support, and action on a missing fisher from Halawatha. He also requested a phased approach rather than an immediate ban on tractors with winches used by stake-net operators, a fundamental redesign of the proposed fisher pension scheme, better export market mechanisms, and fisheries infrastructure development across all coastal regions rather than selected areas.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith Gihan JJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith Gihan said the Fisheries Ministry has a comprehensive plan to revive and modernize the sector, including reactivating multi-day vessels, reducing fuel costs for boats, and strengthening institutions such as Cey-Nor, North Sea Ltd., NARA and NAQDA. He outlined planned infrastructure work, including new jetties in Wellamankara, a feasibility study for Halawatha, and funds for Kalpitiya harbour next year. He said the Government would regulate stake-net and light-coarse fishing to protect small fishers and the marine environment, and would introduce a new Fisheries Act to replace fragmented amendments. He also highlighted plans to expand prawn farming, dried fish, ornamental fish and other export-oriented aquaculture activities.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Kavinda Heshan Jayawardhana SJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Kavinda Heshan Jayawardhana argued that the Government has failed to support fishing communities, particularly in Negombo and surrounding areas, citing unpaid X-Press Pearl compensation, high fuel and operating costs, and reduced boat activity. He called for alternatives before banning winches in madal operations, stronger action against illegal offshore gear, consultation before expanding VMS/transponder requirements, and a programme to support fisher families during weather-related fishing bans. He also urged investment in coastal school resources and implementation of a Negombo lagoon development programme to support both fisheries and tourism.
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam highlighted the dependence of North and East communities on fisheries, agriculture and livestock, and thanked the Government and Eastern Province Governor for progressing funding for a bridge between Kaluvankeni and Punnakkuda to assist fishers during the monsoon. He said decisions from a District Development Committee meeting on fisheries had not been implemented, particularly the request for marine-grade beacon lights at key coastal locations to guide small boats returning offshore. He noted that only inadequate solar lights had been received despite claims of funding, and sought fulfilment of the State Minister’s assurance to provide proper beacon lights.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam raised concerns about freshwater fishers in Batticaloa, arguing that the revised fingerling subsidy and pricing model leaves fishermen’s societies unable to meet the planned Rs. 8.4 million stocking programme, and urged the Government to restore the previous system of lower-priced fingerlings or additional subsidized supplies. He also asked the Deputy Minister to address access issues at the Valaichchenai shore, where he alleged a private party linked to former State Minister Pillayan had fenced off boat-berthing areas. He further highlighted the arrest of a fishermen’s society chairman over an archaeological monuments allegation and questioned the unauthorized operation of fisheries fuel sheds in Kalluvankerny and Palamunai-madu after agreements had expired, asking whether irregularities or corruption were being allowed.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Questions were raised about how an operation has continued for more than six months without an agreement. The member asked whether the NPP Government permits space for fraud and corruption, framing the issue as a governance and accountability concern.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kanthasamy Prabu JJB
AI summary Kanthasamy Prabu raised a point of order. No substantive issue or proposal was stated in the recorded excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam ITAK
AI summary Hon. Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam requested the Presiding Member to allow another member one minute to speak, noting that he had mentioned that member by name.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kanthasamy Prabu JJB
AI summary Kanthasamy Prabu stated that the Valaichchenai matter had been discussed at the Divisional Development Committee meeting. He said resolutions were adopted and that the required follow-up actions would be taken promptly.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Kanthasamy Prabu JJB
AI summary Hon. Kanthasamy Prabu stated that the issue had been identified only recently and clarified that it had not been known for a year. He said necessary action in the relevant area would be taken soon.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Aboobucker Athambawa JJB
AI summary Hon. Aboobucker Athambawa highlighted climate change, monsoon flooding, and rough seas as major pressures on fishers and farming communities in the Ampara District, noting recent evacuations and the need for facilities and relief for affected residents. He supported the 2026 Budget allocation of nearly Rs. 350 million for Valaichchenai Fisheries Harbour, called for restoration of Oluvil Harbour, and urged re-establishment of radio communication systems for the Ampara–Kalmunai fishing fleet. He said the Government had acted with the Fisheries Ministry and Tri-Forces to stop fish piracy in Eastern waters and outlined plans for digital technologies, aquaculture, and inland freshwater fish production to strengthen the fisheries sector.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah welcomed the Rs. 350 million allocation in the 2026 Budget for expanding the Valaichchenai Fisheries Harbour, noting its importance to fishers in Batticaloa and Ampara, and urged continued investment in fisheries safety, equipment, inland fisheries support, housing, water, education, and healthcare. He requested specific facilities including an ice factory at Oluvil, anchorage and fishermen’s village facilities around Ullai and Kattukalai, surveys and support for fishing areas in Pottuvil, a jetty at Manchanthoduwai, and a bund across Meeravodai in Ottamavadi. He also urged the Digital Economy and Science and Technology Ministries to prioritize the Eastern Province by improving broadband and fibre connectivity, establishing innovation and advanced technology centres in Batticaloa, and expanding startup incubation, ICT training, BPO, and IT service centres to create employment.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe emphasized the economic importance of the fisheries sector in the Northern and Eastern Provinces and called for improved harbour infrastructure, particularly the completion of coastal protection works and operationalization of the Oluvil Fisheries Harbour. He argued that making the harbour functional would support deep-sea fishing, exports, local livelihoods, and national income. He also requested urgent compensation and relief for fishers in Ampara District affected by the 2024 floods and the ongoing flooding, noting damage to boats and fishing gear in areas including Pottuvil, Akkaraipattu, Thirukkovil, Oluvil, and Addalaichenai.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Kanthasamy Prabu JJB
AI summary Kanthasamy Prabu supported Budget 2026 allocations for developing the Valaichchenai Fisheries Harbour, noting earlier requests for expansion, lighting, and facilities, and asked the Fisheries Minister to consider a feasibility study for a new harbour at Palchenai in Vakarai to assist deep-sea fishers facing long travel, rough seas, low incomes, and inadequate berthing space. He also requested safety measures for inland fishers affected by crocodile and elephant attacks, increased support for fingerling production, livelihood assistance, and fishing gear. Addressing science, technology, and the digital economy allocations, he urged district-level vocational and multidisciplinary training, improved Vidatha Resource Centres, and support for youth inventors, entrepreneurs, and researchers, while also calling for protection of Batticaloa antiquity sites to promote tourism.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB
AI summary Hon. Amila Prasad questioned the Government’s progress toward its ICT workforce and university expansion targets under the “A Prosperous Country – A Beautiful Life” policy, and asked for clarification on proposed science and mathematics universities. He urged digital regulation and safety improvements for the fireworks industry, tax concessions for R&D imports, and updates on the Eppawala phosphate and Paranthan sulphuric acid projects. He also called for digitization of Customs and Excise to improve transparency and raised concerns about an alleged conflict of interest involving companies linked to the Deputy Minister of Digital Economy receiving government digitalization contracts.
- The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB
AI summary Amila Prasad states that, due to time constraints, the response to the matter can be given after his speech. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or question is raised in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Eranga Weeraratne rose briefly on a point of personal reference, stating that his name had been mentioned and that he needed to respond.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB
AI summary Requested that he be allowed to use his allotted speaking time.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Eranga Weeraratne denied allegations of using his official position to secure contracts for a company in which he holds shares, stating he is no longer its CEO. He said the relevant digitalization contracts with the RDA and expressways were awarded about four years before he assumed office.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB
AI summary Hon. Amila Prasad alleged a conflict of interest involving a Deputy Minister, claiming that Eimsky Business Solutions (Pvt) Ltd, a company owned by the Deputy Minister, was a main supplier for the RDA’s Smart Highway Tolling System under the Transport Digitalization Programme. He questioned the propriety of a minister-owned private company controlling backend revenue systems for expressways and noted that the Deputy Minister’s Ministry regulates market conditions relevant to the company’s operations. He also referred to a purported CID complaint concerning past software theft and argued that, if proven, the matter could have serious consequences for the Deputy Minister’s parliamentary position.
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Eranga Weeraratne stated that the remarks being made concerned him personally and indicated that he needed to respond.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Eranga Weeraratne stated that he had instructed his companies not to accept any new Government contracts after he assumed office. He said the projects in question, including RDA software, were undertaken earlier and are now only being maintained, adding that the companies had contributed to domestic digitalization by developing systems locally. He reiterated that, while he remains in office, the companies will not pursue new Government work.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB
AI summary Hon. Amila Prasad raised concerns that national transport transaction data and backend services, including highway tolls and bus fare systems, are being managed by Eimsky Business Solutions (Pvt) Ltd, which he said could compromise transparency due to alleged links to a senior government officeholder. He called for a special parliamentary select committee or audit inquiry into state contracts awarded to Eimsky Business Solutions and Omobio (Pvt) Ltd. He also noted that the Auditor General had not yet been appointed and urged action to enable proper scrutiny.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB
AI summary Amila Prasad briefly raised a point directed to the Deputy Minister, stating that the matter was serious and should be known by the public. He indicated that the Deputy Minister could respond during his allotted time and thanked the Chair for the opportunity.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan ITAK
AI summary Gnanamuththu Srineshan urged the Fisheries Minister to address Batticaloa fishers’ needs by restarting the idle Kallady ice factory, ensuring non-partisan distribution of fishing gear, providing relief during flood-affected periods, and constructing landing jetties in coastal areas including Vakarai, Kaluvankerny, Navalady and Kallady. He also called for fisheries issues in the district to be handled promptly and beyond party lines. He further urged the Ministers responsible for education, vocational training, science and technology, and the digital economy to embed science and technology in schools, universities, factories and farms, modernize institutions such as the Valaichchenai Paper Mill and Karadianaru Farm, and use skills training to create employment for unemployed diploma holders, graduates and engineers.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Eranga Weeraratne responded to an Opposition allegation that companies in which he has ownership obtained an RDA toll-gate project through his influence. He stated that the toll system project was carried out in 2019, before his current political role, and described it as a locally developed alternative to systems previously handled by Chinese companies, reducing reliance on imports.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Eranga Weeraratne stated that the relevant system was under maintenance by its developer and denied allegations of impropriety. He said that while he holds office and has ownership interests, the companies concerned will not undertake new Government projects, adding that he has stepped down as CEO and invited the Opposition to verify the matter.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera asked the Deputy Minister to clarify whether he was CEO of the relevant companies at the time of submitting nominations and being appointed through the National List, and whether he resigned only afterward. He further questioned whether the Deputy Minister’s family members currently hold director positions in those companies.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Eranga Weeraratne stated that upon assuming office he resigned from his CEO position and did not transfer any role to family members. He clarified that another existing employee of the company is now acting as CEO.
Corruption & Governance Reform Full speech → - The Hon. (Mrs.) Hasara Liyanage, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Hasara Liyanage said the Government has introduced a national science and technology policy to guide research and development, acknowledging expert contributions and responding to Opposition questions on policy coordination. She stated that Cabinet approval has been obtained to seek investors for the Eppawala phosphate project, with 14 expressions of interest, and that Phase 1 work on sulphuric acid is underway. She outlined 2026 priorities including the Vidatha Action Plan, upgrading 73 Vidatha Resource Centres, expanding STEM and Young Inventors’ Clubs from 100 to 1,000 schools, and strengthening university–Vidatha and private-sector R&D collaboration. She also cited a planned zero-budget central cinnamon processing facility in Karandeniya under the Industrial Technology Institute’s zero-waste concept, emphasizing technology transfer, value addition, and “lab into market” implementation.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan DTNA
AI summary Amirthanathan Adaikkalanathan said Northern and Eastern fisheries once contributed a major share of national fish production, but fishers now remain economically vulnerable due to debt, dependence on boat owners and private financiers, lack of price support, and limited cold-chain facilities. He urged the Ministry to establish a government fish purchasing scheme, restore or support insurance premium sharing, and provide compensation mechanisms for losses such as nets destroyed by Indian trawlers or rough seas. He also called for improved education facilities, including nurseries and schools, in fishing communities as part of broader livelihood upliftment.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera welcomed progress on implementing the Personal Data Protection Act and urged investment in the institutional capacity needed to operationalize it, while also calling for the Cyber Security Bill to be placed on the Order Paper and passed without delay. He raised a legal concern that Deputy Minister Eranga Weeraratne may have been disqualified from Parliament if, at the time of nomination, he held shares in a company with a Government contract, citing previous cases involving Rajitha Senaratne and Albert Silva, and asked that possible conflicts of interest be examined. He also questioned the Government’s agreement with EDOTCO to build telecom towers, asking whether it followed an open tender process, who the bidders were, how prices were determined, and how the arrangement would reduce consumer costs.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Asked whether a tender process had been followed, seeking clarification on the procurement or contract procedure under discussion.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Eranga Weeraratne clarified that telecom tower construction by private companies is governed by licences issued by the TRC, not by tendered contracts. He stated that two companies already hold such licences, another application is in process, and additional firms may apply, but only licensed entities can build telecom towers privately.
Infrastructure Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera raised concerns that EDOTCO’s links with Dialog and its parent company could lead to a private monopoly in telecom tower infrastructure, potentially disadvantaging competitors such as Mobitel and Hutch. He asked the Government to disclose the second and third licensed tower companies, explain the pricing formula for services, and clarify how competition and consumer benefits would be protected, particularly in light of commitments to prevent unsolicited or corrupt advantages.
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law - Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs JJB
AI summary Sunil Watagala requested that an answer still be provided despite the allocated time having expired. No substantive policy issue, legislative matter, or specific question was included in the recorded intervention.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera questioned the Government’s decision to grant EDOTCO a nationwide tower rollout licence without tender, asking how such an arrangement would reduce consumer prices. He argued that the previous Government had introduced transparent tender frameworks, including in the power and renewable energy sector, and said current solar procurement processes depended on those earlier policies. He called on the relevant Minister to respond, framing the issue in the context of the Government’s stated commitment to ending corruption.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Members indicated agreement, and the matter was further considered in Committee.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera questioned the legal basis and public impact of the EDOTCO project, asking how competition, lower prices and consumer protection would be ensured and whether it could create a private-sector monopoly affecting users. He also raised concerns about unpaid foreign-based “advisors” to the Government, specifically asking whether a National Science Policy reportedly prepared by Prof. Gomika Udugamasooriya had been presented to Parliament or reviewed by relevant Members.
- The Hon. Sunil Watagala, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Sunil Watagala stated that he had read all the relevant material. No further argument, proposal, question, or policy position was presented in the excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Hon. Ajith P. Perera stated that Hon. Sunil Watagala had referred to a National Science Policy that had not been presented to Parliament. He implied a concern about the availability or formal tabling of the policy for parliamentary scrutiny.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB
AI summary Mujibur Rahuman noted that Hon. Lal Kantha is also a member of the Cabinet.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera challenged the claim that a National Science Policy had been prepared, arguing that the document being cited was instead the Government’s “Prosperous Country - Beautiful Life” presidential election policy statement. He said a formal National Science Policy had not yet been produced, despite being promised in the manifesto, and accused the Government of misleading the public by suggesting otherwise.
Education Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Eranga Weeraratne clarified that telecom tower infrastructure is now commonly developed by licensed tower companies, not only telecom operators, to support shared infrastructure and prevent market dominance through proprietary towers. He stated that infrastructure licences are not exclusive, noting that EDOTCO and TowerCo already hold licences, another local company has applied, and more may qualify. He argued that multiple providers would allow all telecom operators equal access to towers under the legal framework, promoting competition and more affordable services.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Hasara Liyanage, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Hasara Liyanage rose to raise a Point of Order before the Presiding Member. No substantive argument or policy issue was stated in the provided excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar, as Presiding Member, noted that another Member was seeking to raise a Point of Order. No substantive policy issue, proposal, or question was presented in this intervention.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Hasara Liyanage, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hasara Liyanage clarified that the policy statement “Prosperous Country - Beautiful Life” incorporated views and expertise from various stakeholders in formulating a science policy.
Education Full speech → - The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera objected procedurally that his allocated speaking time was being given away. He asked the Presiding Member why this was happening.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera disputed a claim that Prof. Udugamasooriya had prepared an adopted National Science Policy free of charge, stating that the document referred to was only a manifesto document. He argued that presenting it as a national policy was misleading and suggested it amounted to dishonesty.
Education Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Eranga Weeraratne JJB
AI summary Hon. Eranga Weeraratne noted that telecommunications towers are now also operated by independent tower companies, not only by telecom operators. He argued that licensed infrastructure-sharing should ensure all operators can access towers at equal cost, preventing larger operators from gaining unfair advantages and supporting competition and affordable services.
Infrastructure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar criticised the Opposition’s contributions to the debate on the Ministries of Digital Economy, Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, and Science and Technology, saying they lacked substantive proposals for the fisheries sector and focused instead on personal and communal attacks. He rejected allegations that the JVP was racist, stating that the party had treated Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim citizens equally and citing its electoral support in Jaffna and Vanni. He concluded by thanking Members who contributed constructively and the ministry officials and parliamentary staff who supported the preparation and conduct of the debate.
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary An amendment was moved at the Committee Stage of the Appropriation Bill, 2026, on behalf of the Minister of Finance, relating to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources. The proposal seeks to amend page 34 by substituting the capital allocation with Rs. 7,700,000,000.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary The House agreed to insert the increased Capital Expenditure allocation of Rs. 7.7 billion into the Schedule and approved related allocations under Head 151. It also approved Rs. 460.8 million for Programme 01 recurrent expenditure and Rs. 104.8 million for Programme 01 capital expenditure, with Programme 02 allocations recorded as Rs. 2.3815 billion recurrent and Rs. 6.2098 billion capital expenditure.
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary An amendment was moved at the Committee Stage of the Appropriation Bill, 2026, under Head 151, Programme 02. The intervention was procedural and did not include further argument or explanation.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Parliament agreed to amend the Schedule for Head 151, Programme 02, increasing the capital allocation for the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources by Rs. 1,000,000,000 to implement Budget Proposal No. 38. The recurrent allocation of Rs. 2,381,500,000 and the amended capital allocation of Rs. 7,209,800,000 were approved, after which the related Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources allocations under Head 290 were set out.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary At the Committee Stage of the Appropriation Bill, 2026, Ramalingam Chandrasekar moved an amendment under Head 290, Programme 01. No further details of the proposed amendment were provided in the speech excerpt.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Parliament agreed to amend the Schedule for Head 290, Programme 01, increasing the capital allocation to the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources by Rs. 200 million to implement Budget Proposals Nos. 37 and 56. The recurrent allocation of Rs. 1,257.7 million and the amended capital allocation of Rs. 385.4 million were approved and ordered to stand part of the Schedule, followed by the presentation of allocations for the Ministry of Science and Technology.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. (Prof.) Chrishantha Abeysena JJB
AI summary At the Committee Stage of the Appropriation Bill, 2026, an amendment was moved on behalf of the Minister of Finance for the Ministry of Science and Technology. The amendment proposes revised allocations of Rs. 3,170,000,000 for recurrent expenditure and Rs. 3,600,000,000 for capital expenditure.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Members assented to a series of Committee Stage votes on budget allocations, approving increased recurrent expenditure of Rs. 3.17 billion and capital expenditure of Rs. 3.6 billion for inclusion in the Schedule. They also approved allocations under Head 196, including Programme 01 recurrent expenditure of Rs. 218 million and capital expenditure of Rs. 27 million, with Programme 02 allocations noted at Rs. 2.782 billion recurrent and Rs. 2.973 billion capital.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. (Prof.) Chrishantha Abeysena JJB
AI summary An amendment was moved at the Committee Stage of the Appropriation Bill, 2026, under Head 196, Programme 02. The intervention was procedural and did not include further argument or policy details.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary An amendment to Head 196 was agreed, increasing Programme 02 allocations for Development Activities to Rs. 2.952 billion in recurrent expenditure and Rs. 3.573 billion in capital expenditure. The adjustment was made following Gazette Extraordinary No. 2458/65 of 18 October 2025, transferring provisions for the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board, the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council, and related activities to the Ministry of Science and Technology. The amended recurrent and capital expenditures were approved to stand part of the Schedule, after which the estimates for the Ministry of Digital Economy were noted.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. (Prof.) Chrishantha Abeysena JJB
AI summary At the Committee Stage of the Appropriation Bill, 2026, an amendment was moved on behalf of the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Digital Economy to revise the allocation for the Ministry of Digital Economy. The proposed change substitutes the recurrent expenditure figure with Rs. 6,400,000,000 on page 30, line 16 of the Bill.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Parliament agreed to insert the increased recurrent expenditure allocation of Rs. 6.4 billion into the Schedule and approved the related amended recurrent expenditure. It also approved allocations under Head 186, including Rs. 241.5 million for Programme 01 recurrent expenditure and Rs. 25 million for Programme 01 capital expenditure, before noting Programme 02 allocations of Rs. 3.3125 billion recurrent and Rs. 8.1285 billion capital expenditure.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. (Prof.) Chrishantha Abeysena JJB
AI summary Hon. (Prof.) Chrishantha Abeysena moved an amendment during the Committee Stage of the Appropriation Bill, 2026. The amendment was presented under Head 186, Programme 02.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- Hon. Members
AI summary Parliament agreed to amend Head 186, Programme 02 of the Ministry of Digital Economy by increasing recurrent expenditure by Rs. 500 million to Rs. 3,812.5 million, linked to Budget Proposal No. 08, while approving capital expenditure of Rs. 8,128.5 million. It also approved the Department of Registration of Persons’ Head 227, Programme 01 allocations of Rs. 2,346 million for recurrent expenditure and Rs. 1,946.5 million for capital expenditure to stand part of the Schedule.
Public Finance Full speech → - The Hon. (Prof.) Chrishantha Abeysena JJB
AI summary Moved that the Committee report progress and seek leave to sit again. The motion was agreed to, after which the Presiding Member left the Chair and the Committee reported progress, with proceedings scheduled to resume on 27 November 2025.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech →
- 10 Procedural Committee Report: Amendments Agreed to in Committee 1 speeches
- 11 Adjournment Adjournment Debate: Grant of Freehold Deeds to Occupants of State Lands 18 speeches