The Hon. R. M. Gamini Rathnayake

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, I must say a few words on the Private Member’s Motion moved by Hon. Ravi Karunanayake. This subject has been debated many times, but practical implementation has not followed for several reasons.

¶ 02 The Mover emphasized that a significant majority of people oppose pensions for MPs and that we too should reject them. But he also suggested that such public opinion had been cultivated as a political tool by some, implying a defence of the past. Thus, there are internal contradictions in the explanations. However, if the Motion is truly brought in good faith, the Government is ready to elevate and pass it.

¶ 03 You raised the lack of clear data on the number of pensioners and the amount spent. I have studied this. In December 1976, the then United Front Government’s Chief Government Whip and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, K. B. Ratnayake, introduced the proposal to grant pensions to MPs. It was passed without a division. The law provided that completing five years’ service entitled one to a pension.

¶ 04 From then until 25 January 2025, there are 330 retired MPs drawing pensions. In addition, there are 182 widows/widowers of retired MPs drawing pensions. Altogether 512 payments are made from the Parliamentary Accounts. Currently, there are seven dependants drawing pensions. As of 25 January 2025, the monthly amount paid to retired MPs is Rs. 23,541,645.96; to spouses, Rs. 11,025,216.14; to other dependants, Rs. 420,121.20. Under the Vote on Account for Jan-Apr 2025, Rs. 150,000,000.00 has been allocated for MP pensions. Approximately, pensions are paid to around 513 beneficiaries.

¶ 05 We have ushered in a new political culture. A significant majority of the people elected 159 Members who serve selflessly for the people, without seeking perks, privileges or positions.