The Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, Youth Society Council reorganization activities are currently being carried out islandwide. The National Youth Services Council established in 1979 by Hon. Ranil Wickremesinghe has never before been politicized in this manner as is now evident through the way these reorganizations are being conducted.

¶ 02 Hon. Minister, I believe you are aware that Youth Services Officers’ duties are being carried out by Members of Parliament, Local Authority Members of the National People’s Power and representatives of the Socialist Students’ Union, who are appointing officer bodies while informing only their own groups.

¶ 03 Accordingly, I pose three questions to the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports:

¶ 04 1. Is the emblem used for the Socialist Youth Union’s youth societies being used for Youth Societies now?

¶ 05 2. Are you aware that Youth Services Officers have been politicized and are functioning as representatives of the National People’s Power?

¶ 06 3. Do you accept that the establishment of Youth Society Regional Councils should be done impartially and free of political influence?

¶ 07 Currently, Youth Society Regional Councils are being set up around the country. The Chairman of the Youth Services Council has directly said, “We will establish councils the way we want.” Traditionally, MPs did not interfere when establishing Youth Society Regional Councils. We never intervened or exerted such influence. Youths independently formed their councils, moved to regional, then to district level councils. Intervening like this is not appropriate for the Youth Services Council.

¶ 08 Though the NYSC was formed under a UNP Government in 1979, even SLFP members worked in it. Under the UNP Government, SLFP members held office in certain councils. Over time, there has been criticism and protests about politicization. Therefore, I request the Minister to ensure these youth councils are established independently, and for the Government to intervene where necessary and refrain where not. Full authority for establishing councils lies with the Minister and the Chairman. I request that you act accordingly. I have posed three questions and await your responses.