The Hon. S.M. Marikkar

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, President J.R. Jayewardene gave school textbooks free. President Ranasinghe Premadasa gave uniforms and mid-day meals free. In that path or another, I welcome this Government’s allocation for students to buy stationery. But neither J.R. nor Premadasa drew dividing lines in classrooms. Whether a child was from a poor or rich family, all were equal students. Therefore, follow that correct method to reap proper benefits.

¶ 02 Also, today the Health Minister told former Minister Rauff Hakeem that unlike the previous Government, they do not withhold information, but that ethical norms prevent sharing details on COVID burials. The Gotabaya Rajapaksa Government forcibly cremated Muslim COVID victims on pseudo-scientific grounds, to avenge a community. We, as citizens, have a right to know. If ethics prevent giving names, we accept that; but at least tell us how many were cremated. We believe the current Government is not acting in a racist manner like the previous one. Provide details by Divisional Secretariat to Parliament.

¶ 03 The President is now in India. We welcome cordial relations with our neighbour. But those who held seminars around the country saying ETCA would erode sovereignty should now clarify. The then-Opposition, including the current President, questioned oil pipelines, etc. Yesterday I saw him speak of these at a media briefing. I do not say do not proceed; but if you do, say so. Are you signing the UCC agreement? Are you proceeding with an oil pipeline? Clarify.

¶ 04 Also, upon coming to power, you said you would cancel the Adani project. Now, after talks with Indian investors yesterday, is the Adani project cancelled or proceeding? Adani is a leading Indian investor. If you remove Adani and bring others, can you proceed? After the visit, we expect answers, including what projects, amounts, national security implications, and trade dominance issues. Present a detailed report to Parliament.

¶ 05 The President said in campaign rallies—even with specific dates—that we could even swim in the Trincomalee oil tanks because they were full; and that they would be developed under public-private partnership. What is being done now? Are you in agreement with India? If bringing investors, have you discussed with India?

¶ 06 Further, the 500 MW Sampur power plant was halted. Was it discussed during this visit? In the past, during President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s time, many promises were made abroad without informing Parliament; the then-Opposition demanded disclosure—now please do the same. I am not accusing; I am optimistic: if you are proceeding, tell us where, when, how much, and benefits.

¶ 07 Also, recently a Member behind me said ISB holders do not agree to talks; but they have now agreed to what Ranil’s Government discussed. We had said, if you disagree, renegotiate. I have questions. The JVP held protests to reduce electricity and water tariffs, PAYE, VAT. Now we hear that of US$12.5 billion in ISBs, the haircut is only about US$3.2 billion. With higher-than-expected tax revenue due to harsh policies, by 2027 it may reduce further to US$2 billion, making the haircut under 17%. Did you discuss relief like VAT and PAYE reductions, and electricity and water tariff reductions with the IMF?

¶ 08 The PUCSL says there is room to reduce electricity tariffs by 11–23%. If CEB does not accept PUCSL recommendations, why have a PUCSL? If Government lets CEB act unilaterally, why have a Government? State your position.

¶ 09 You said you would remove taxes from food, education, health. Did you agree to lower VAT on food to secure a better haircut? During the Aragalaya, young private-sector professionals supported you, believing PAYE would be reduced.

¶ 10 Time.

¶ 11 I will conclude. Last year Rs. 100 billion was expected but Rs. 140 billion was collected; this year Rs. 200 billion is projected. Will that Rs. 100 billion relief be given to young professionals, or will you treat it as revenue to reduce the haircut?

¶ 12 We do not wish to disrupt; we only want you to fulfil campaign promises. Thank you.