Sitting of Thursday, 5 March 2026
Source: Hansard PDF (parliament.lk) ↗ ·No. 23375 ·English daily/uncorrected Hansard
Order of business
Speeches load per item. Summaries shown here are AI-generated and labelled; verbatim text is on each speech page.
- 1 Opening Parliament Opening and Speaker's Announcements 1 speeches
- 2 Papers Papers: Report on Observations (PM and Minister of Education) 1 speeches
- 3 Petitions Petitions: Citizens' Petitions Presented 4 speeches
- 4 Oral question Oral Question: Multi-Purpose Service Centres in Mullaitivu District (Q.1/1185/2025) 6 speeches
- 5 Oral question Oral Question: Export of Minor Export Crops Since 2015 (Q.2) 6 speeches
- 6 Oral question Oral Question: Urban Development (Q.4/1543/2025) - Stand Down 2 speeches
- 7 Oral question Oral Question: Cattle in Ampara District (Q.5) 7 speeches
- 8 Oral question Oral Question: Widows' and Orphans' Pensions (Q.6) 6 speeches
- 9 Oral question Oral Question: Transport/Urban Development (Q.7/1786/2025) - Stand Down 3 speeches
- 10 Oral question Oral Question: Injustice to Gampaha SANASA Depositors (Q.8) 8 speeches
- 11 Oral question Oral Question: District Hospital Grading and Health Issues (Q.9) 5 speeches
- 12 Oral question Oral Question: Kili/Mulankavil Maha Vidyalaya (Q.10/1831/2026) - Stand Down 6 speeches
- 13 Oral question Oral Question (Standing Order 27(2)): Large-scale Cattle Deaths in Northern Province 5 speeches
- 14 Oral question Oral Question (Standing Order 27(2)): Justice and Accountability for State-Connected Violations - Deferred 3 speeches
- 15 Oral question Ministry Statement: Reply to Question on Proactive Utilization (Standing Order 27(2), 18.11.2025) 7 speeches
- 16 Procedural Procedural: Indian Ocean Security Matter and Parliamentary Debate on Sovereignty 55 speeches
- 17 Procedural Procedural: Motion on Sitting Hours Extension 1 speeches
- 18 Adjournment Adjournment: National Care Policy and International Women's Day 96 speeches
- The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip JJB
AI summary The Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip moved the adjournment of Parliament. The Speaker then proposed the question on the motion.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - Mr. Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Samanmali Gunasingha moved an adjournment motion calling for a National Care Policy to recognize and value women’s unpaid care work as part of the national economy, alongside their contributions in apparel, tea and foreign remittances. Marking International Women’s Day, she argued that Sri Lanka needs a legal and policy framework to strengthen women’s safety, social protection, political and economic participation, and to change outdated social attitudes. She proposed applying the ILO-related “3Rs” approach—recognize, reduce and redistribute care work—using digital services, infrastructure, online complaint mechanisms and a national integrated care programme for children, elders and persons with disabilities.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Rohini Kumari Wijerathna SJB
AI summary Hon. Rohini Kumari Wijerathna seconded the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus Adjournment Motion for International Women’s Day, emphasizing the need to recognize and value women’s unpaid care work in the home and its contribution to the economy. She proposed incorporating household labour into GDP calculations, providing state support for full-time carers, establishing childcare and eldercare centres, and making paternity leave mandatory. She also raised concerns about violence against women, exploitation of junior professional women, and the burdens placed on women by nutrition, health, and cost-of-living crises. Referring to her visit to Dumbara Prison, she noted that some women are detained due to family-related circumstances or procedural delays and called for attention to their situation.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education JJB
AI summary The Prime Minister supported the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus Adjournment Motion on a National Care Policy, arguing that unpaid care work is a major barrier to women’s equal participation in political, economic and social life. She called for care work to be recognized as a social responsibility requiring public intervention, infrastructure, financing, regulation and attitudinal change, including childcare and eldercare centres, disability support, safer transport, and reduced household burdens linked to education. She said the policy should form part of a wider structural transformation to value, redistribute and support both paid and unpaid care work, while promoting women’s leadership and equal citizenship.
- The Hon. K. Kader Masthan SLLP
AI summary K. Kader Masthan marked International Women’s Day by noting that women are a majority of Sri Lanka’s population and urging the Government to ensure greater participation for women in politics, the economy, and other spheres. He then condemned the escalating conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel, expressed condolences over reported deaths including that of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and called on Sri Lanka to use diplomatic channels to promote peace and prevent wider war. He also criticized the Government for alleged failure to assist Iranian naval personnel seeking help for 11–12 hours, urging the President to take urgent steps toward peace.
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Hemali Weerasekara - Deputy Chairperson of Committees JJB
AI summary The Deputy Chairperson of Committees marked International Women’s Day by highlighting increased women’s representation in Parliament, local government, the judiciary, public administration, policing, education, and business under the Government’s policy framework. She cited the rise in women MPs after the 2024 General Election, noted women holding senior constitutional and administrative offices, and emphasized that women have attained these positions through merit and resilience. She called for women to be included in decision-making, for recognition of women’s unpaid care work through a National Care Policy, and for stronger protections against gender-based insults, insecurity, and barriers to participation.
Women & Children Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Hemali Weerasekara - Deputy Chairperson of Committees JJB
AI summary Mrs. Hemali Weerasekara briefly stated that the Government is working to politically empower women, protect their rights, strengthen their role in the national economy, and support their transition from victimhood to empowerment.
Women & Children Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Jeevan Thondaman UNP
AI summary Hon. Jeevan Thondaman urged the Government to investigate allegations involving the mortuary of a major Government hospital in Nuwara Eliya following the death of a young woman, and requested the Prime Minister’s direct supervision and a formal position at the next sitting. He raised concerns that plantation-area children are being denied access to preschools or that civil society-run preschools are being taken over by estate management, and called for intervention by the Women and Children’s Affairs Ministry. He also asked the Government to implement an earlier Cabinet decision to bring plantation residential areas under State control, publish the Gazette and agreement on estate wage increases, and ensure that casual and private-sector workers are covered fairly.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Geetha Herath, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Geetha Herath linked the Adjournment Motion to International Women’s Day and emphasized women’s safety, economic contribution, and the need to recognize unpaid care work through a National Care Policy. She noted that although women comprise over half the population and a large majority of university graduates, their workforce participation remains low, particularly after marriage and childbirth, and argued for policies strengthening the family unit as well as women’s economic, political, and social empowerment. She cited the Women’s Empowerment Act, No. 37 of 2024, the proposed Women’s Commission, planned amendments to the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, and the Microfinance and Credit Regulatory Authority Bill as measures addressing women’s protection and financial vulnerability. She also referred to inter-ministerial coordination and loan programmes for women entrepreneurs, stating that the Government would support women facing social and economic challenges.
- The Hon. Deputy Speaker procedural
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Namal Sudarshana - Deputy Minister of Women and Child Affairs JJB
AI summary Deputy Minister Namal Sudarshana supported the Motion calling for a National Care Policy, linking it to International Women’s Day and the Government’s policy commitments on reducing women’s unpaid care burden. He said the Ministry has included this objective in the National Policy on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, is finalizing an Action Plan, and will seek Cabinet approval, establish a Steering Committee, sign relevant MoUs, and submit the draft to the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus. He also noted joint work with the Labour Ministry and the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Protection and Community Empowerment to develop a National Social Protection Strategy and strengthen childcare, eldercare, and other care services while assessing the economic value of unpaid care work.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) Namal Sudarshana JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Namal Sudarshana said the Government is reviewing the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, No. 34 of 2005, and the National Child Protection Authority Act, No. 50 of 1998, to update them in light of social and technological changes and strengthen protections for women and children. He noted that steps are being taken to establish the Women’s Commission under the Women’s Commission Act, No. 37 of 2024, including providing premises, staff, and budgetary support, with a mandate that includes formulating a National Women’s Policy. He also marked the forthcoming International Women’s Day by acknowledging women’s contributions to rights advocacy and the role of women Members of Parliament.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. V.S. Radhakrishnan SJB
AI summary Hon. V.S. Radhakrishnan highlighted women’s economic contribution in apparel, plantation work, and migrant labour, while noting their limited representation in formal employment and the difficult living and working conditions of plantation women. He urged the Government to provide toilet and rest facilities and improve housing in estates, strengthen measures against violence against women, and consider welfare measures such as free bus travel for women. He also requested an inquiry into incidents at Dickoya–Glengyle Hospital and called for fires to be reinstated as an emergency disaster category so displaced estate families can receive official relief.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Nilanthi Kottahachchi, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Nilanthi Kottahachchi argued that women’s participation in governance, public services, and the labour force is essential to economic stabilization and social transformation, citing the recruitment of female SLTB conductors and the need to address harassment in public transport. She outlined government measures including increased preschool meal allocations, investment in early childhood centres, women’s enterprise projects, online and local marketplaces, community kitchens, laundry services, caregiver networks, and production and marketing programmes such as “Diriya Man Petha” and “Liya Shakthi.” She also detailed support for women with disabilities, including housing, repairs, sanitation, hearing aids, and mobility assistance, and said the Government would continue advancing women’s economic, political, social, and cultural empowerment.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB
AI summary Gayantha Karunathilleka spoke in support of the Adjournment Motion marking International Women’s Day, recalling Sri Lanka’s institutional measures for women’s affairs and noting women’s representation in national leadership, public service, education and local government. He said women remain central to major foreign exchange-earning sectors such as overseas employment, apparel and plantations, but continue to face hardships that require urgent government attention. He called for action beyond ceremonial statements, proposing cross-party initiatives through the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus with Opposition support, and highlighted low female labour-force participation, unemployment, unstable work and the unvalued household labour of women.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Hasara Liyanage, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Hasara Liyanage supported the Adjournment Motion on recognizing women’s unpaid care work and developing a National Care Policy, noting the gap between women’s high university participation and low labour force participation. She argued that caregiving responsibilities, not reflected in GDP, require state support through gender-responsive budgeting, early childhood services, education allowances, shelters, counselling, and mental health programmes. She also rejected an Opposition reference to an Iranian warship near Galle, saying wartime issues should not be politicized and reaffirming support for humanitarian principles and world peace.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Ajith P. Perera SJB
AI summary Ajith P. Perera criticized the failure to provide humanitarian assistance to a conflict-affected friendly state and urged action to help a vessel reportedly carrying 300 children within Sri Lanka’s maritime reach, framing it as a humanitarian and international law obligation. He also highlighted the role of sport in women’s advancement and wished the women’s cricket team success, while arguing that Sri Lankan cricket has declined due to administrative failures, corruption, and malpractice. He called for legislative reform of cricket governance based on the previously Cabinet-approved proposals of K.T. Chitrasiri, warning that interim or ad hoc measures would worsen the crisis.
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Hasara Liyanage, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Hasara Liyanage raised a Point of Order to clarify that she had not made any anti-humanitarian statement. She stated that matters of statecraft should be handled with sensitivity and without seeking political gain, and affirmed that the NPP Government stands for global peace and humanity.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Anushka Thilakarathne, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Anushka Thilakarathne focused on women’s political participation in the International Women’s Day debate, citing increased representation in Parliament and local authorities, particularly through the NPP, while noting continuing barriers such as party structures, media conduct, traditional attitudes, and entrenched power groups. She highlighted examples of women elected to local bodies in Nuwara Eliya, Jaffna, and Gampaha, and urged them to contribute to local and national development and women’s empowerment. She also referred to Government measures including increased preschool meal allowances, school supply grants, and support for underprivileged children, arguing that these were delivered despite economic constraints. She concluded by emphasizing women’s autonomy and the right to make independent choices in politics and life.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Hector Appuhamy SJB
AI summary Hon. Hector Appuhamy marked Women’s Day by urging the Government to protect the environment as part of safeguarding women’s dignity and health. He raised concerns about dense black smoke and ash emissions from the Norochcholai coal power plant, alleging substandard coal combustion and possible removal of filtration systems, and said communities in Kalpitiya and surrounding areas were being harmed. He requested a statement to Parliament on decisions taken to control emissions and mitigate environmental damage.
- The Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees procedural
- The Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva JJB
AI summary Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva argued that Sri Lanka’s political representation of women is inconsistent with their majority share of the population, noting their low presence in Parliament and local government and calling for reforms to increase women’s political power. He highlighted the economic contributions of women in tea, garments and overseas employment, while questioning whether they receive fair social, economic and cultural benefits. He focused particularly on women with disabilities, describing their exclusion from representation, education, employment and family life, and called for equal and, where necessary, affirmative rights to address economic, patriarchal and disability-based barriers.
- The Hon. M.S. Abthul Wazeeth SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Abthul Wazeeth raised concerns over the Middle East conflict and urged Government action to protect Sri Lankan workers there, while also calling for measures such as QR codes to manage emerging fuel and gas queues. He focused extensively on Pottuvil and Arugambay, opposing compulsory leases for long-settled small tourism operators with LDO permits or Jayabhoomi grants, requesting 1,800 metres of geo-bag coastal protection, and questioning the demarcation of the Arugambay Tourism Zone. He also sought agricultural and fisheries support in Ampara District, including paddy dryers, repair of Nintavur paddy stores, release of 186.4 hectares from the Forest Department, an ice factory and fuel station for fishermen, and facilities for veterinary and health services. He further requested absorption of volunteer teachers, reopening of a Nintavur service facility, reconstruction of Addappallam Bridge, and establishment of a Blood Bank and specialist appointments at Nintavur Hospital.
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Nilusha Lakmali Gamage, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Nilusha Lakmali Gamage supported the Adjournment Motion for International Women’s Day proposing a National Care Policy to recognize unpaid care work in the national economy. She highlighted the economic contribution and difficulties faced by women workers, particularly tea pluckers, migrant workers and apparel workers, citing poor living conditions, job insecurity, reduced overtime and social stigma, and referred to cultural and library programmes intended to support apparel workers. She also outlined Government and district-level initiatives for women’s empowerment, including allocations in Ratnapura, land deed documentation, housing projects, and women MPs coordinating district subcommittee programmes on safety and livelihoods.
- The Hon. (Dr.) Hiniduma Sunil Senevi — Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs
AI summary A procedural motion was moved to have Hon. Chanaka Madugoda take the Chair during the sitting. The House agreed to the motion, after which the Deputy Chairperson of Committees left the Chair and Hon. Chanaka Madugoda assumed it.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB
AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa supported the proposed National Care Policy but argued that its effectiveness depends on practical implementation and an independent National Women’s Commission. He questioned whether current economic conditions, including high prices and utility costs, protect women’s dignity, and cited low female labour force participation and high female unemployment as requiring concrete action plans. He also called for safeguards against exploitative microfinance and online lending, a national programme on maternal and child nutrition, better data for poverty-related policymaking, support for women-headed households, and protections for women and children in digital environments.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) (Ms.) Kaushalya Ariyarathne - Deputy Minister of Mass Media JJB
AI summary The Deputy Minister said the Government has submitted an Adjournment Motion for a National Care Policy to recognize, reduce and redistribute unpaid care work and integrate it into the national economy, in line with its election policy commitments and the ILO’s 3R approach. She also addressed women’s representation and participation in the media, citing concerns over commodification, online abuse, harassment, and limited advancement into decision-making roles. She outlined planned measures including an Independent Media Commission, a Chartered Institute of Media Professionals, skills-development funding of Rs. 104 million, exploration of journalist insurance, and action to protect media workers affected by reported problems at the “Mawbima” newspaper.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) (Ms.) Kaushalya Ariyarathne JJB
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) (Ms.) Kaushalya Ariyarathne stated that Sri Lanka’s proposed care policy would draw on international examples from countries that have recognized unpaid care work in law or policy. She said the Government would consult civil society organizations working in this area and requested constructive input from Members on both sides of the House.
Women & Children Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Hon. Dilith Jayaweera criticized the Government’s approach to women’s policy as based on imported feminist ideas that, he argued, do not reflect Sri Lankan social realities centred on motherhood and the family. He urged the Government to focus on practical economic empowerment for women, including self-employment, entrepreneurship, skills, creativity and access to capital, and to deliver on its promises amid economic hardship. He also warned that Sri Lanka needs a coherent foreign policy and regional geostrategic strategy to safeguard national security.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Dilith Jayaweera requested a brief extension of speaking time from the Presiding Member.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB
AI summary Dilith Jayaweera called for Sri Lanka to act according to a nonviolent, civilizational ethos rooted in Buddhist teachings. He said the country should serve as a mediator in global conflicts and promote peace through its philosophical vision.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources JJB
AI summary The Minister warned fishers against crossing into other maritime zones amid heightened Indian Ocean security tensions, noting that two Kankesanthurai fishers reported missing had been arrested by Indian coastal security and that the Government would seek clarity and pursue diplomatic action for their release. He then supported the Adjournment Motion linked to International Women’s Day, emphasizing the need to recognize women’s economic contribution and unpaid care work through a National Care Policy. He highlighted the impact of war, microfinance debt, fisheries work, and poverty on women in the North, East, and plantation communities, while citing increased women’s representation in Parliament and local authorities.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar JJB
AI summary Ramalingam Chandrasekar said the initiative aims to empower women by recognizing the dignity and qualifications of those who guide families and society. He stated that further action would be taken to ensure women deprived of rights can secure those rights and live better lives.
Women & Children Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha raised concerns about Sri Lankan women working as domestic workers abroad, particularly in the Middle East amid regional instability, and questioned whether the SLFEB and diplomatic missions provide effective emergency assistance, hotlines, and repatriation support. He proposed reducing the Rs. 25,000 SLFEB charge on outbound domestic workers to a minimal insurance-related fee of around Rs. 5,000–6,000, citing their low incomes and contribution to foreign exchange. He also urged the Government to address the impact of the Iran–Israel conflict on migrant workers, exports, and freight costs, condemned attacks affecting the Indian Ocean peace zone, and asked whether protection had been provided to Sandhya Eknaligoda following reported death threats.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Ambika Samivel JJB
AI summary Hon. Ambika Samivel spoke in support of the Adjournment Motion marking International Women’s Day, emphasizing women’s achievements beyond household roles and the need for equal opportunities in all sectors. She highlighted the economic and professional contributions of plantation Tamil women and noted increased Tamil women’s representation in Parliament, local bodies, public administration, education, law, and medicine. She stated that sustainable development requires women’s participation and referred to the government’s measures, including a minimum 5% women’s participation in civic and social protection bodies.
- The Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha rose on a Point of Order. No substantive issue, proposal, or question was recorded in the excerpt provided.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha SJB
AI summary Hon. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha raised concerns about operational failures at the Norochcholai coal power plant, citing two non-functioning coal conveyors, reduced generation capacity, and increased flue emissions due to the electrostatic precipitator being offline. He emphasized that statements alone cannot resolve the mechanical problems and implied the need for practical corrective action.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Saroja Savithri Paulraj - Minister of Women and Child Affairs JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Saroja Savithri Paulraj moved a procedural motion for Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara to take the Chair. The motion was agreed to, after which Hon. Chanaka Madugoda vacated the Chair and Hon. (Prof.) Sena Nanayakkara assumed it.
Parliamentary Procedure Full speech → - The Hon. Gnanamuththu Srineshan ITAK
AI summary Gnanamuththu Srineshan supported the Adjournment Motion on International Women’s Day, arguing that Sri Lanka must move from rhetorical support for women’s equality to practical measures, including improved political representation and protection from violence. He cited past conflict-related abuses, disappearances and unresolved justice claims affecting women, and urged accountability for cases involving figures such as Sandhya Eknaligoda and the family of Lasantha Wickrematunge. He also called for urgent action on human-elephant conflict in Batticaloa after recent deaths of women in their homes. Additionally, he requested appointments for B.Ed. graduates, pension-related relief for long-serving volunteer teachers appointed late, promotions for sports officers, and the filling of vacancies.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah SLMC
AI summary Hon. (Dr.) M.L.A.M. Hizbullah spoke in support of the Adjournment Motion on International Women’s Day, highlighting women’s contributions to the tea, apparel, and overseas employment sectors and calling for policies to address their issues, support self-employment, and improve access to credit. He also requested the Minister to introduce a common preschool syllabus, standardize preschool teacher training, set a clear starting age for preschool education, and apply basic standards uniformly.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) M.A.C.S. Chathuri Gangani JJB
AI summary The Hon. M.A.C.S. Chathuri Gangani supported the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus proposal for a National Care Policy to recognize unpaid care work as part of the national economy, in the context of International Women’s Day 2026 and the UN theme on women’s rights, justice and action. She highlighted recent gender-sensitive budgeting measures, particularly housing support for low-income and women-headed households under the “Seamatha Nivahana” programme, including an increase in housing grants to Rs. 1 million and planned allocations for 31,000 houses. She also referred to housing initiatives for plantation workers, conflict-affected displaced persons, and girls leaving care homes, stating that these measures aim to improve women’s safety, dignity, and social, economic and political standing.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe SLMC
AI summary Hon. M.S. Uthumalebbe called for legal and policy measures to increase women’s labour force participation, noting that women comprise 52% of the population but only about 30% of the workforce, and referenced Islamic teachings on women’s dignity and motherhood. He condemned reported US and Israeli attacks on Iran, urged the Sri Lankan Government to issue condolences and a clear condemnation, and warned of possible economic effects on Sri Lankan workers in the Middle East. He also requested a full report to Parliament on an Iranian naval vessel reportedly struck near Sri Lankan waters and asked the Defence Minister to clarify whether Sri Lankan waters are being drawn into the conflict.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Marking International Women’s Day, the MP supported the Women Parliamentarians’ Caucus proposal for a National Care Policy on unpaid care work and rejected claims of conflict between the Government and the Women’s Commission, stating that it should be independent. She highlighted the increased representation of women in the 10th Parliament, including women without political family backgrounds and the first two women MPs from the plantation Tamil community, as a significant milestone. She also cited the National People’s Power’s women representatives in local authorities and called for constructive engagement with women’s political leadership while criticizing the Opposition’s record and conduct on women’s representation.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law JJB
AI summary Hon. Lakmali Hemachandra argued that harassment and political attacks directed at women MPs, including the Prime Minister, are attempts to weaken women’s political power. She said the increased participation of women from ordinary families, supported by the “Women, We Stand as One” movement, represents a historic political change that deserves respect and recognition. She concluded by calling for continued action to increase women’s representation in politics.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Krishnan Kalaichelvi JJB
AI summary Hon. Krishnan Kalaichelvi supported the Adjournment Motion calling for a National Care Policy that values women’s unpaid care work, linking it to International Women’s Day. She condemned the alleged mishandling of a young woman’s body at Dickoya Hospital and said investigations are underway, with action to be taken by the Ministry of Health if wrongdoing is found. She highlighted the multiple disadvantages faced by hill-country and plantation women, including low wages, lack of workplace facilities, harassment, domestic burdens and childcare responsibilities, while noting recent government measures such as a Rs. 400 wage increase and housing under the Indian Housing Scheme. She also called for programmes to address child street vending in estate areas of Nuwara Eliya District.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Ms.) Krishnan Kalaichelvi JJB
AI summary Krishnan Kalaichelvi stated that the government has begun practical measures to address public needs, particularly programmes aimed at improving women’s incomes, rather than merely criticizing past governments. She expressed confidence that, with women holding the offices of Prime Minister and Minister of Women and Child Affairs, appropriate solutions would be brought forward for issues faced by women in Sri Lanka.
Women & Children Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. M.A.M. Thahir ACMC
AI summary Hon. M.A.M. Thahir spoke on an Adjournment Motion connected to International Women’s Day, emphasizing respect for women and noting government measures such as appointing women to senior offices. He urged the Government, especially women members, to condemn attacks affecting women and children in the Middle East, including an alleged attack on a girls’ school in Iran, and questioned why Sri Lanka had not expressed solidarity given Iran’s past assistance, including the Uma Oya project. He also argued that the Government’s pledges of equality were not being reflected in its responses to international issues and in local programmes, citing the Prajashakthi project in his area where he said no women were selected, and called for household-level initiatives to create opportunities for women.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Oshani Umanga JJB
AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) Oshani Umanga supported the proposal to formulate a National Care Policy for women, highlighting increased women’s representation in Parliament, local authorities and community bodies. She argued that women bore the heaviest burdens during the recent economic and social crisis, and cited Government measures including school and preschool nutrition programmes, sanitary pads for schoolgirls, housing assistance, wage increases and efforts to reduce household hardship. She also referred to export growth, the planned Sri Lanka Expo 2026 and village-level women’s entrepreneurship initiatives as evidence of women’s expanding role in the national economy.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development and the Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary During an Adjournment debate marking International Women’s Day, Bimal Rathnayake argued that social, economic and institutional structures continue to limit women’s advancement despite their major contribution to Sri Lanka’s economy, including foreign exchange earnings. He highlighted unpaid domestic and care work as a key barrier affecting even educated and professional women, and noted declining female representation at senior levels in universities, health administration and other institutions. He called for identifying and removing administrative, institutional and attitudinal barriers, including through measures such as low-interest credit and support for women’s entrepreneurship, and also referred to the impact of conflict in the Middle East on women’s vulnerability globally.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development and the Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary The Minister argued that support for women in politics is needed because social structures create vulnerabilities, particularly through online and media harassment targeting women MPs. He cited Asia-Pacific data that 85 percent of women MPs face such harassment and said Parliament should lead efforts to protect and strengthen women who enter public life. He noted that the number of women MPs has doubled and said his office had requested a report on the level of harassment faced by women MPs within Parliament.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development and the Leader of the House of Parliament JJB
AI summary Hon. Bimal Rathnayake condemned the harassment and abuse of women Members of Parliament, particularly by Opposition MPs and through cyberbullying, and argued that such conduct discourages women and girls from entering politics. Citing Standing Orders 77, 81 and 82 on discipline and disorder in the House, he requested action from the Chair and parliamentary staff to examine complaints and determine whether any previous Parliament had seen comparable insults toward women MPs. He said Parliament’s response was necessary not only to protect the 22 women MPs but also to signal protection and respect for women more broadly, including in workplaces and public life.
- The Hon. Faiszer Musthapha, PC NDF
AI summary Hon. Faiszer Musthapha urged Parliament to protect the dignity of women members, arguing that abuse under parliamentary privilege discourages women’s political participation. Marking International Women’s Day, he called for measures to increase women’s labour force participation, including more crèches, longer maternity leave and formal work-from-home options, and supported higher representation for women in politics building on the 25 per cent local authority quota. He also asked the Government to address the needs of war widows after 2009 through accelerated welfare support and proposed stronger workplace mechanisms and reporting support to tackle sexual harassment and violence against women.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Padmasiri Bandara JJB
AI summary Padmasiri Bandara spoke in support of the Adjournment Debate marking International Women’s Day, citing patriarchal social structures, violence, economic exploitation, and cultural constraints affecting women in Sri Lanka. He highlighted past and ongoing political mobilization, including the “Women, We Stand as One” movement, and said the Government is pursuing measures on gender-based income gaps, land rights, labour protections, micro-debt relief, and support for women entrepreneurs. He called for increased women’s representation in Parliament proportionate to their share of the population and pledged continued support for women’s rights and justice.
Women & Children Full speech → - The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Sivagnanam Shritharan ITAK
AI summary Sivagnanam Shritharan used the International Women’s Day adjournment debate to highlight India’s AI policy initiatives and argued that Sri Lanka should reform education to include AI, coding, data science and robotics to prepare youth for technological change. He warned that AI-related job displacement could particularly affect women and said the digital economy should be used to create stable employment for women-headed households, especially in the North and East. He also referred to war widows, families of the disappeared, and incidents such as Sencholai, demanding answers and justice for women who surrendered or lost family members during the war.
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. Presiding Member procedural
- The Hon. (Mrs.) Saroja Savithri Paulraj - Minister of Women and Child Affairs JJB
AI summary The Minister supported the Adjournment Motion on recognizing women’s unpaid care work and preparing a National Care Policy, linking it to International Women’s Day and the theme of rights, justice and action for women and girls. She outlined government measures including the establishment of a Women’s Commission under the Women’s Empowerment law, proposed reforms to the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, amendments enabling women’s night work, recognition of sexual bribery under the Anti-Corruption Act, and microfinance regulation to protect affected women. She also noted programmes for low-income women and women-headed households, and said the Ministry is working to professionalize caregiving and recognize care work as economically valuable human-capital development.
- 19 Procedural Procedural: Closing Announcements and Administrative Information 4 speeches