The Hon. (Dr.) Jagath Gunawardana

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, thank you for the opportunity on these regulations under the Convention against Doping in Sport Act, No. 33 of 2013.

¶ 02 As a medical practitioner, I note much of the WADA list includes commonly available medications in Sri Lanka; problems arise when taken beyond proper dosage or with intent to enhance speed, strength, or endurance.

¶ 03 We must support these regulations to secure a fair sporting environment, protect ethics, clean sport, encourage honest athletes, and safeguard Sri Lanka’s sporting reputation.

¶ 04 A major problem is athletes’ use of banned substances to gain speed, strength, and endurance. SLADA conducts awareness for athletes, coaches, and teachers. Alarmingly, doping is rising even within schools. Government must counter it.

¶ 05 Currently, testing relies on urine samples. Internationally, blood samples are also used. We plan to adopt both, leveraging modern technology, to protect athletes’ futures and reputations.

¶ 06 When we see extraordinary performances, we must pay attention and, where warranted, investigate. Strong laws deter doping. Beyond medicines, other prohibited stimulants must be stopped at the border.

¶ 07 Athletes may seek short-term wins and money but suffer physical and psychological harm, social rejection, bans, loss of income, and addiction. Immunity weakens; illnesses increase.

¶ 08 The 2025 prohibited list has been published in Sinhala, Tamil, and English by Gazette, effective 01 January to 31 December 2025. To realize “a prosperous country – a beautiful life,” we are ensuring fair access to sport, infrastructure, international cooperation, professional pathways, and a sports culture as pledged in our policy statement. The Sports Minister and Deputy Minister are already acting—building grounds, forming clubs, and allocating resources—to create a healthy, disciplined, strong society.

¶ 09 Thank you.