The Hon. (Dr.) Najith Indika

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, today we seek approval for regulations presented under Section 61 of the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Act, No. 2 of 1996, and under Section 29 of the Fishermen’s Pension and Social Security Benefit Scheme Act, No. 23 of 1990. The Government side, including the Minister, has clearly explained why and on what basis we bring these, and the importance of doing now what previous administrations failed to do.

¶ 02 We are advancing a better pension for fishers, while also proceeding with the Bill to abolish MPs’ pensions. This shows our commitment to change political culture—bringing politicians down from pedestal to ground, while enhancing support to ordinary people deprived of entitlements.

¶ 03 Within days we have taken two pension-related decisions. Let me address claims by Hon. Namal Rajapaksa about the recent disaster. He alleged initial Rs. 1 million was promised then reduced to Rs. 500,000. The President on 5 December, in Parliament during the Budget, clearly outlined immediate assistance: Rs. 25,000 emergency cash for cleaning; Rs. 50,000 for household items; support for schoolchildren, farmers, traders; and grants for partially and fully damaged houses. These do not arrive overnight. We are already paying Rs. 25,000 and processing Rs. 50,000 and other benefits in due course, while assessing damages to houses and businesses methodically.

¶ 04 He also claimed people rushed to demand Rs. 500,000 because the President said so. Nonsense. People understand processes. Meanwhile they theatrically asked in districts whether payments had arrived the next day. We’re managing the disaster clearly.

¶ 05 On previous disasters: in 2013 at Meeriabedda, 70 houses were buried and 130 in danger. The then government took four years to provide 70 houses; the remaining 130 were not provided. Now, after 11 years, we are completing them. So do not make farcical claims.

¶ 06 On police: those who misused police in recent years now preach to us. The country remembers how violence was abetted. Do not lecture us.

¶ 07 On Mihintale: we saw how, when the monk said “your father robbed but built the country,” the response was “sadhu.” Enough said.

¶ 08 On the “crab” proverb: it also says when big crabs walk sideways, they tell the little ones to walk straight. The Rajapaksas went crooked and didn’t even advise their juniors to go straight. At least now, come down to earth and act sensibly.

¶ 09 We have much work this year: many Bills to pass; to continue economic stabilization while delivering relief. Opposition members should support where warranted. Thank you.