The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, in our lifetimes this is the most grievous tragedy we have faced as a country. Today we approve a Rs. 500 billion supplementary estimate to assist affected people and restore lives. As a responsible Opposition, we ask only this: the President told this House he would provide a swift relief package. Deliver it swiftly, through a proper process, free of political interference, without arbitrary deductions or conditions, and put the money directly into the hands of those people.

¶ 02 These people rarely ask for help. Some families were buried; some lost their closest loved ones; many lost homes and livelihoods, harvests and children’s books. This allocation is solely for those affected. The President’s pledge gave them hope—“even for a single roofing sheet lost, Rs. 100,000 will be paid.” Ensure those cash grants reach them immediately.

¶ 03 The Government can learn from the people, especially in the South which was spared this time. The southern people mobilized sensitively and swiftly—private sector, media, temples and churches—preparing meals and bringing water within a day or two. If we had just waited for circulars and forms, imagine the outcome. As during the tsunami—fisherfolk took boats on lorries to the North, East and South; highlanders and people from North Central rushed to help—this time too people across provinces mobilized. I pay tribute to them.

¶ 04 With only three minutes, let me also note: the Leader of the Opposition acted exemplary and beyond narrow politics. We will continue in that spirit. He appealed to ambassadors, high commissioners, and international organizations, asking “please help our country,” and has been aiding hospitals with millions.

¶ 05 Hon. Deputy Speaker: Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka, your time is up.

¶ 06 Therefore, we request the Government to fulfil its promises. The funds are being allocated today; we give full support. Put the money in people’s hands; do not dim their hopes. They are innocent and grieving. Do not impose conditions or make deductions. Fulfil the pledges exactly as told in this House. We will support fully and also point out shortcomings as is our duty. Thank you for the time.