The Hon. Roshan Akmeemana

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, fishers belong largely to the informal sector—about 55 lakh (5.5 million) workers are informally employed in Sri Lanka; active fishers number around 320,000, and roughly one million people depend directly on fisheries. Informal workers face every economic shock first: unstable incomes, no social protection, often no access to private insurance. That is why today’s new Regulations under the Fishermen’s Pension and Social Security Benefit Scheme Act are important.

¶ 02 Past pension schemes had low take-up because of design flaws. Out of roughly one million dependents, only about 69,000 have enrolled. This shows unattractive features and poor outreach. The new scheme allows non-monthly, flexible contributions suited to irregular incomes. Crucially, if a contributor dies, a nominated heir can receive benefits—previously not possible. We will engage fishers culturally and socially to build awareness and participation.

¶ 03 The recent disasters severely hit fisher communities, especially in the Eastern Province and my Trincomalee District. Data show: 28 dinghies total loss, 55 partial loss; 30 canoes total loss, 20 partial; two partial losses to ma-del craft; three partial to one‑day boats; one multi‑day partial; three partial to mechanized canoes. Net losses are still being compiled. Government and Cey‑Nor are repairing partial-loss vessels and replacing total‑loss boats; grants for nets and gear are being provided.

¶ 04 In Trincomalee, Cod Bay is a key fishing zone that had been captured by political mafias and underworld elements. We have restored the rule of law there and, with World Bank support in 2026–2027, plan to expand the harbour, creating more business and jobs. The main central fish market had been neglected; we are preparing estimates to renovate and reopen it properly. We are reviving inland fisheries in reservoirs like Kantale with new technologies.

¶ 05 Finally, a word on media freedom. During a previous era Sri Lanka fell to 165th out of 173 countries, 13 journalists including Lasantha Wickrematunge were killed, Prageeth Ekneligoda disappeared, over 50 journalists fled, and Sirasa was bombed; Mervyn Silva stormed National TV. We uphold media freedom. But freedom does not extend to knowingly false reporting without sources; media institutions are profit-making businesses and must accept responsibility for accuracy.