The Hon. Ramanathan Archchuna

¶ 01 There is someone here who wrote up a house for Rs. 5 million—he films me from behind. That deed was moved about Anuradhapura. I need say no more. You speak of Sinhala–Tamil unity from your mouths; we speak from the heart. I was saved by a Sinhala war hero. Please cut many items in this Budget and give to those people. When you need them, only then do you look for them. A pilot in Kuliyapitiya died—how many of you went to their homes? Be ashamed.

¶ 02 I again thank Colonel Buddhika and his team. I also saw at Kuliyapitiya Hospital that when an MS like me arrived late, they received a letter against him. Is the Health Minister here? The future President! The MSA at Kuliyapitiya has been removed. Do not do such things. If someone risks life to rescue in a VOP, save him; otherwise he will also come to Parliament and sit in the Opposition. Please look into it.

¶ 03 About the cab money—I am willing to give it. If you can arrange through the DS or for estate people, I will give a letter. But all the money must reach households—Rs. 1 million each. I do not want your cab. I have no car now; no bike; nothing. I will go by bus to Jaffna and work. Does any of you travel by bus? Be ashamed.

¶ 04 I know what you will say. I am watching the time; no need to remind me.

¶ 05 After this Budget debate, if any of you come North, tell us—we will support. I will raise funds from the diaspora to distribute in the North and East—and even the South if needed. If I call, money will flow. While you go abroad and enjoy—find your assets and liabilities—