The Hon. Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, I am pleased that a Motion related to the disaster caused by the “Ditva” cyclone has been brought to this House. This disaster severely affected many parts of the country. While relief is being provided to the affected people, I wish to point out that in the Ampara District — in areas such as Alayadivembu, Thirukkovil, Navithanveli, Kalmunai, Addalaichenai, Karaitivu, and Pottuvil — floods and storm damage caused severe hardship. For 10 to 15 days, there was no electricity, no transportation, and no communication. The affected people had no way to inform authorities in time about the disaster. Yet, the authorities set a short deadline for reporting losses. Many people could only report after that deadline, and to date they have not received compensation. In southern areas, however, deadlines were extended and compensation given. Our farmers in these Ampara areas lost poultry, cattle, and other livestock. Without communication, they could not notify veterinarians or officials in time. Later, they were told the deadline had passed and compensation could not be given. These farmers were badly affected and must be compensated.

¶ 02 When floods entered homes and damaged them, people could not report in time. Authorities asked whether photos were taken or whether reports were lodged via hotline, but at that time there was no electricity or telecom in Ampara. The Deputy Minister of Disaster Management knows this. Therefore, even those who could not report within the stipulated time should be considered and granted relief. In other areas, time was extended; the same facility should be provided in Alayadivembu and surrounding regions.

¶ 03 Further, while you speak about the recent storm, in Ampara the coastal erosion in Thirukkovil and Karaitivu is devastating. In Thirukkovil, 200–300 metres have been lost to the sea. Karaitivu is also being eroded. The Government has not taken steps to protect these places. We have repeatedly requested through this House to build rock revetments to arrest the erosion.

¶ 04 People’s livelihoods are affected; their traditional places of worship are endangered. In Thirukkovil, corpses buried in the cemetery are being washed into the sea by waves. Similarly, at the cemetery in Maligaikadu, Karaitivu, burials are being exposed and washed away due to erosion. Families cannot even protect the final resting places of their loved ones; the Government has driven them to this plight. Therefore, take action to protect the Maligaikadu cemetery in Karaitivu and the cemetery in Thirukkovil from flood and erosion. I urge corrective action through this august House.

¶ 05 Sri Lanka holds central geostrategic importance. We have a duty to safeguard the country. Many nations have an eye on us. A global war-like situation could arise. If such a scenario occurs, what measures have you planned to protect the people, the economy, and essential needs? Bring a Motion in this House and take the necessary steps. Global competition among powers could lead to conflict; our country must not be caught in that web. We must prepare in advance: stock essentials and fuel, improve domestic production, and protect our people. I place this request before the Government through this House. Thank you.