The Hon. Anton Jayakody

¶ 01 Hon. Member, large quantities of waste are discharged to sea from Colombo to Negombo; monsoons then wash much of it ashore, sometimes from other countries or ships. Under the Clean Sri Lanka programme, we implement continuous beach cleaning, especially in Colombo and Negombo.

¶ 02 The X-Press Pearl impact was immense. Significant cleanup was done and compensation received at the time was distributed to affected fishers; we accept it was not sufficient. Two cases are currently underway to secure further compensation. Depending on outcomes and funds, compensation will be paid appropriately. Additionally, a recent accident in India has polluted parts of our coast from Negombo to Jaffna. The Coast Conservation and Coastal Resources Management Department, together with MEPA, is cleaning; many areas are already cleared. The Government is actively engaged in these matters.