Hon. Sugath Thilakaratne - Deputy Minister of Sports

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, we are discussing the use of prohibited stimulants and the updated lists. These updates are crucial for federations, athletes, coaches, medical and nutrition professionals, and sponsors. Athletes often seek short-term gains—national pool selection, international participation, monetary rewards—but suffer severe physical and mental consequences, bans from competition (ranging from six months to life depending on substance and dosage), loss of prizes, and social disrepute. Health risks include cardiac, hepatic, respiratory, and psychological illnesses.

¶ 02 Globally, examples include Lance Armstrong, stripped for doping, and Ben Johnson in 1988, banned for life from athletics. In Sri Lanka too, athletes from athletics, cricket, rugby, boxing, weightlifting, and powerlifting have been banned, in some cases up to eight years or life for multiple prohibited substances.

¶ 03 For 2025, we have allocated funds: Rs. 20 million for testing and Rs. 1.12 million for awareness and education programs. Testing is conducted in and out of competition, using urine and blood samples. In 2023, 145 urine samples were collected with four positives; in 2024, 130 tests with four positives; by 31 May 2025, 41 tests with one positive. These figures show the need for vigilance and education. In 2023, SLADA conducted 70 awareness programs (2,710 participants); in 2024, 45 programs (2,435 participants); by 31 May 2025, 20 programs (2,108 participants).

¶ 04 Sri Lanka lacks accredited lab facilities; therefore, samples are sent to Qatar—although China and India also have labs—because there are only about 36 WADA-accredited labs globally, and Qatar is closest.

¶ 05 We will also act to curb the importation of such substances. While these substances can temporarily boost speed, strength, and endurance, they create deep unfairness for clean athletes; hence SLADA’s continuous oversight.

¶ 06 We must prioritize the quality of life in sport—focus on local nutrition, use modern technology, uphold sports ethics, and achieve victories cleanly. SLADA will prevent prohibited substances reaching athletes and continue public awareness, so our athletes can win nationally and internationally through clean sport.

¶ 07 Thank you.