The Hon. Sugath Wasantha de Silva

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, yesterday we submitted the National People’s Power Government’s first Budget Statement—the inaugural or “auspicious” Budget. If the first act is good, that title fits. This Budget brings relief across society, easing burdens and bringing smiles; thus, it is indeed a felicitous Budget.

¶ 02 Contrary to the previous speaker’s view that it abandoned certain regions, in my reading this Budget embraces the whole of Sri Lanka and all strata of society—planned inclusively. Its main thrust can be summed up in a few words: security, empowerment, and inclusion. I say this as someone speaking for persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups.

¶ 03 The President, Hon. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, states powerfully in the preface that persons with disabilities and disadvantaged groups must be integrated into the main economic stream by recognizing and harnessing their economic potential. Only then can they access dignified lives. In 1988 a circular introduced a 3 percent employment quota. In 1996, the Act protecting the rights of persons with disabilities provided for access to vocational training and employment. Yet 28 years later, 71 percent of persons with disabilities remain out of work, living in hardship. This Budget commits to a scientific approach to integrate them economically.

¶ 04 For 76 years there has been no comprehensive data system on persons with disabilities. This Budget allocates Rs. 100 million to establish a robust national database. Without data, how can we make evidence-based policy and plans? Past claims of empowerment yielded little; people suffered further marginalization.

¶ 05 I am glad that the disability allowance has been increased from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000, with a pledge to pay it on time and without hassle—this will end a cycle of suffering.

¶ 06 Another issue is assistive devices—all imported. We have raw materials and technology to localize production; what we need is coordination. This Budget initiates local manufacture of assistive devices from Ragama—wheelchairs, crutches, Braille equipment, up to electric wheelchairs—so our brothers and sisters can move independently with dignity.

¶ 07 Transport is a severe barrier. Neither SLTB nor private buses are accessible. This Budget proposes low-floor buses for both SLTB and the private sector on major Colombo corridors—an historic first step toward inclusive mobility, reducing the high private transport costs persons with disabilities now bear.

¶ 08 A significant initiative is establishing care and skill development centres. Early identification—especially in the first three months—for autism and neurodevelopmental disorders allows far better outcomes. The Government’s focus here is vital. Within the next eight months, centres will be set up with access facilities and specialists to ensure protection and development.

¶ 09 We are proud of the large health allocation; within it, pathways will be created to free people from disability-related deprivations and prevent past tragedies caused by harmful treatments. This must be a health service without ministers later expressing regret over avoidable harm. Funds will build a healthy population where hospital visits do not end in the mortuary.

¶ 10 Education too receives high priority. We trust the Hon. Prime Minister, as Minister of Education, will provide equipment, technology and teacher training for Special Education and children with special needs.

¶ 11 Hon. Presiding Member, my time is up.

¶ 12 From last evening my phone has been full of messages from the disability community expressing gratitude that many of their aspirations are being met. I am proud to raise both hands to support such a Budget. To those shedding crocodile tears about students affected by water cannons: remember, we are a political movement that grew through student struggles—students are our driving force; we have not forgotten them. This Budget is the first step on our path; more people-centred Budgets will come. We also seek the Opposition’s support. Thank you for the time.