The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri

¶ 01 Mr. Deputy Speaker, I move:

¶ 02 “That this Parliament resolves that the Government should prepare a programme to enhance the contribution of the livestock sector to Sri Lanka’s national production.”

¶ 03 The present Government, long an advocate of domestic production and self-reliance, knows this is key to stabilizing the economy. The livestock sector is vital because many rural livelihoods depend on it. We import many dairy products—cheese, butter, etc. With a comprehensive livestock programme, we can reduce imports, save and earn foreign exchange, and improve nutrition. Reports indicate child and maternal malnutrition rates have risen, with overall malnutrition around 25%. Through a robust livestock programme—dairy, poultry—we can improve nutrition and create employment and SMEs.

¶ 04 We do not need endless rehashing of past corruption; prosecute offenders, yes, but the country needs practical plans. Before coming to power, you criticized weaknesses in prior governments; now implement the solutions you promised. For example, you previously opposed rice imports, yet still import rice. We ask not for recriminations but your concrete plan: where to develop dairy, how to build rural self-employment, with numbers and timelines.

¶ 05 We also warned early that President Trump would impose tariffs; we urged pre-emptive action. Do not dismiss opposition warnings out of partisanship. Today, we present constructive proposals. In livestock, alongside building reserves and strengthening domestic production, set out short-, medium-, and long-term measures. We do not need more stories of thieves; punish them. But implement a grounded, nationwide plan through the livestock sector to rebuild the domestic economy.

¶ 06 I commend the motion.