The Hon. Hector Appuhamy

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, thank you for the opportunity.

¶ 02 On this final day of the 2025 Budget debate, we still hear the same campaign speeches as before the presidential and parliamentary elections. The people need work, not words. Whether public salary raises or private sector matters—within a month or two the people’s voice will be heard; tailor your message to that, not old rhetoric.

¶ 03 On revenue, there are only two main streams: foreign exchange and domestic collections. Based on data, it appears you cannot meet your ambitious domestic targets. Then you must borrow—from whom and how? If not repeating past errors, then explain clearly to this Parliament your new approaches, partners, and agreements.

¶ 04 On the Foreign Affairs Head day, I raised the serious issue of driving licences. What began in some European countries has spread to Australia and New Zealand; some Sri Lankans have even been detained while driving. Resolve this immediately. Many overseas Sri Lankans supported your victory—do not abandon them. On Italian visas, do not claim credit; those were processed upon confirmation by Italian hosts, not through your intervention.

¶ 05 On sand, clay, and gravel: licence suspensions have left small quarry and stone‑breaking workers, especially in Puttalam, destitute. If you halt licences, provide alternatives or safety nets—otherwise innocent daily‑paid workers will have nothing this New Year season.

¶ 06 Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe, are you giving proper rice packs for Sinhala New Year? If quality is lacking, the complaints will come from your own side—be prepared. Also, national security: security screening at Parliament entrances has tightened; if there is a wider security concern, address it comprehensively. Ensure national security so the public can live and do business without fear.

¶ 07 Overall, this Budget does not appear very successful as is—but making it successful is your job. As local elections near, do not return to falsehoods on stage. We are contesting under the theme “An end to lies; space for truth.”

¶ 08 I wish all a Happy Sinhala and Hindu New Year.