The Hon. Kins Nelson

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, I am pleased to present views on the National Transport Commission (Amendment) Bill presented for Second Reading today. On public transport, I proudly note that the highest-earning SLTB depot is in Polonnaruwa District. However, it operates with minimal facilities and inadequate staff. Even now, around 40 drivers and conductors are needed. The previous government gave 32 appointments, but they were absorbed into the administrative service, not into required operational roles. For public transport to run, both drivers and conductors are essential, and experienced conductors should be recruited and trained.

¶ 02 Our Polonnaruwa depot needs 164 buses; only 95 are operable. Four buses ran on the expressway and generated significant revenue, but now all four are out of service; I draw the Minister’s attention to this.

¶ 03 Welikanda is a difficult area; from Welikanda to Aralaganwila and Dimbulagala there is effectively one bus serving numerous main villages and over a dozen schools. I have raised this repeatedly—even with the previous government—but still only one bus runs. I trust our Leader of the House, Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, will ensure additional buses. From Dimbulagala to Kaju Watta is a long distance; Kaju Watta is a large village with large plots; children walk long distances between fields to reach school. Despite repeated requests to the depot manager and the Minister for a bus via Kaju Watta, it has not happened. While you act against corruption, please also address these urgent service needs.

¶ 04 On aviation: we were happy to see an Airbus very recently. But our migrant workers—celebrated with garlands when leaving—are neglected when they return after 4–5 years. At minimum, treat them with dignity—provide a separate channel and better service on arrival. I witnessed a woman struggling with her baggage and passport—this must change. I trust the Minister will take note.

¶ 05 You said a new aircraft was added, paying USD 275,000 per month. How old is this aircraft? In the past, brand-new planes were also brought; what is the age and configuration—how many Business Class, Economy, Economy Comfort seats? We must ensure value for money; cheaper options may exist. We raise this to minimize excesses, not to oppose for its own sake.

¶ 06 Our national airline has incurred losses; under Emirates management it was profitable, but later changes led to losses. Your government claims to be against corruption—catching and jailing thieves. Yesterday, all media reported that in Polonnaruwa, fuel was earlier transported by rail and large above-ground tanks at the Kaduruwela stopping point stored up to a million litres. Tenders for removing the above-ground tanks were awarded for Rs. 2.5 million, and they are being dismantled. But there are also underground tanks; CPC says they were unaware of the underground tanks, yet those too have been removed and taken away by a group from Anuradhapura—still under a Rs. 2.5 million tender. These assets are worth far more. Who signed this tender? This was widely reported yesterday. The Minister of Justice also commented but later said his statement was edited. When our MPs raise such matters, accusations are made. I urge proper accountability. Thank you.