The Hon. K. Kader Masthan

¶ 01 Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim.

¶ 02 Hon. Presiding Member, I am happy to join the debate on the Licensing of Container Depot Operators Bill and the (Amendment) Bill to license shipping agents, freight forwarders, non-vessel operating common carriers and container operators. These identify issues faced by these professional operators, grant them proper licences, and streamline their businesses within a system. I commend this effort.

¶ 03 This morning, under Standing Order 27(2), I raised a question. Hon. Minister Bimal Rathnayake gave a positive reply regarding the Mannar–Puttalam road. There was confusion among the public that a court “judgment” had barred its use. In fact, it is a settlement—an agreed outcome—not a judgment that would bar future use. The Minister stated he would work with all relevant parties, including the line ministry, towards a positive resolution. I thank him.

¶ 04 As we work towards such a resolution, we too must extend full support, avoiding divisive rhetoric that would hinder reopening this vital road. I urge that we use the cooperation extended to make this a principal highway.

¶ 05 At the 78th Independence Day, the Hon. President made an excellent speech—departing from past narratives—acknowledging that over 76 years some actions were wrong and some right, and that we should accept the good and correct the bad as we move forward. This is commendable. Today, despite problems, the country is in a better state than at Independence, with development achieved. Past decisions often punished all for the wrongs of a few. I support the President’s approach to recognize the good and correct the bad.

¶ 06 Next, volunteer teachers face a serious issue. In 2019, after interviews and Cabinet approval, permanent appointments were to be granted. Yet some volunteers were left out—60 in the Northern Province and 193 in the Eastern Province, totaling 253. After the war, they served in difficult conditions across regions, contributing greatly to education. I request a special Cabinet paper to grant them permanent appointments. Some are now 45 years old and have no other path, having dedicated themselves to teaching our children in conflict-affected areas. I conclude by asking the Government to arrange their permanent appointments on humanitarian grounds.