The Hon. W.H.M. Dharmasena

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, I second the motion moved by Hon. Ranjith Madduma Bandara. The Pelwatte, Sevanagala, Ethimale and Gal Oya plants rendered immense service to Monaragala District. Commenced around 1982 and opened in 1986, they strengthened the district’s economy.

¶ 02 After the devastation of Wellassa by the British, President J.R. Jayewardene established Pelwatte and Sevanagala to eradicate poverty in Monaragala, creating jobs, business opportunities, and farming. Hon. Minister Sunil Handunnetti, please do not allow these factories to collapse. Over 5,000 people work in Sevanagala and Pelwatte; many more farm because of these factories. Over Rs. 300 million is due to farmers and over Rs. 400 million to suppliers. There are bank loans of about Rs. 1,500 million with interest; EPF/ETF arrears exceed Rs. 350 million. Workers’ medical insurance is halted; bonuses, confirmations, promotions are withheld; salaries are delayed. Parties and farmer groups are protesting. Sevanagala is profitable—protect both plants and our people.