The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, the main question and this supplementary are important. Several institutions are involved in the medicines supply process: the NMRA; the Medical Supplies Division; the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation (SPC); and the State Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Corporation (SPMC). The key is coordination among these four. The NMRA plays a crucial role, and there were serious issues. You know a technical system was procured for process support, which failed, and fraud occurred within. Files piled up—there were 2,100 files when we assumed office. We have since cleared a significant number: about 1,200 files have been cleared. As of 31 May last year, another 900 files were pending for registration at NMRA. From January onward, within three months, we will streamline processes and expedite granting of registrations for new and renewal applications—without compromising due diligence: all dossiers will be reviewed, samples checked, and necessary interventions made. By March, we expect to clear the backlog, providing relief to NMRA. With increased staffing, registration can be further expedited.