The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip

¶ 01 (a) (i) Mr. K.A. Nihal, Medical Laboratory Technologist, had been serving as the Chief Medical Laboratory Technologist at the National Hospital, Galle from March 2016 to 17.03.2020. During that period, he was also in charge of the Consumable Stores of the hospital laboratory. A difference between the ledger balance and the physical balance of consumables, machinery, special materials and glassware in the hospital stores was observed and a preliminary inspection was conducted. Thereafter, inconsistencies between the ledger balance and the physical balance were identified and, to determine the amount to be recovered from him, an investigation under Financial Regulation 104(4) was commenced on 09.09.2024. Action regarding payment of pension can be taken after completion of the relevant investigation. (ii) No.

¶ 02 (b) (i) As stated in (a)(i) above, in accordance with the Government Financial Regulations, an inquiry under Financial Regulation 104(4) must be conducted and a report obtained to identify losses and damages caused to the Government. (ii) The preliminary investigation report is not provided to the relevant officer; at the conclusion of the final investigation, the officer will be notified in writing of the recommendations. However, when he and his wife inquired by telephone from the National Hospital, Galle, they were informed of the progress of the investigations. (iii) As per the Government Financial Regulations Compendium, under FR 104(4), an inquiry must be conducted to calculate losses and damages. (iv) As stated in (a)(i) above. (v) As stated in (b)(ii) above. (vi) Since the investigation to calculate the losses recoverable from Mr. K.A. Nihal is complex (requiring examination of inventory records, files and receipts over many years), it has taken a considerable period. Further, as the committee report is expected in the first quarter of 2025, the activities related to preparation of the pension will be carried out without delay accordingly.

¶ 03 (c) Does not arise.