The Hon. Palani Thigambaram

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, I express condolences to those who lost their lives due to the disaster. Families have lost livelihoods. The country faces another crisis; we, as Sri Lankans, must unite to rebuild and we will fully cooperate with Government efforts. When in Opposition, the present Government spoke often about handling natural disasters, yet now, despite power, they have struggled to contain the impact.

¶ 02 Floods affected Colombo and urban areas; landslides struck Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Kandy, Matale, Ratnapura, Kegalle. Landslides recur every monsoon. We cannot prevent natural disasters, but we can reduce losses. We see people protesting for safe housing. The estate sector needs land for housing: do not cite lack of land; only about 10% of total plantation company land is needed to house 900,000 hill-country people. During our “Good Governance” tenure, we granted 7 perches per family and built houses. This Government should grant 7 or 10 perches likewise and build houses immediately. Plantation companies care about profit; Government and companies must consider the people’s lives. Use the 10,000 Indian-funded houses to quickly accommodate those affected and at risk.

¶ 03 Many friendly nations, especially India—during tsunami, COVID and the economic crisis—have helped; now too, India is extending significant assistance. I record special thanks to the Government of India.

¶ 04 Hon. Minister Samantha Viddyarathna, during the crisis, roads were blocked and no one could reach Nuwara Eliya; only Government officers and the Army could help the people. I thank them. I went on foot to Kotmale; people were suffering. Please visit those areas—come to Nuwara Eliya—but do not come only for photo-ops. In Vewandanwatte and Bhagawantalawa estates, people do not want to return to unsafe sites. At Nanuoya Desford Estate, even the rail embankments have slipped; people are afraid to return, but estate managers are urging them to rebuild there. We trust you; you spoke more than us for estate people when in Opposition. Now you have the power—make the decisions: give at least 10 perches to those affected by landslides and build houses. With Indian-aided houses ready, coordinate and hand them over immediately. We offer full cooperation.

¶ 05 We supported your Budget because you raised salaries; we will stand with you on good measures. Please provide 7 or 10 perches and build houses. Many are still in line rooms; they cannot stay there indefinitely—please provide tents and temporary relocation while houses are built.