Hon. Bimal Rathnayake - Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development and the Leader of the House of Parliament

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, I thank the President, who as Minister of Finance presented the second Budget of this Government—the 2026 Budget—steering the economy amidst severe challenges and engaging the public in national development with a democratic economic vision. I also thank him for personally contributing to the debate on three occasions.

¶ 02 I extend appreciation to the Chief Government Whip, Nalin Jayathissa, for his active role throughout an equivalent of 26 days; to all Ministers and State Ministers for their continuous support; to the Leader of the Opposition, the Chief Opposition Whip, and all Members on both sides of the House.

¶ 03 Hon. Speaker, you discharged a special responsibility in conducting proceedings impartially amidst vigorous arguments. I also thank the Deputy Speaker, the Deputy Chairperson of Committees, the Panel of Chairs, and staff.

¶ 04 My thanks go to the Leader of the House’s staff and Secretary, the staff of the Chief Government Whip’s Office, and the Leader of the Opposition’s Office and staff for their cooperation.

¶ 05 Despite transport and personal hardships during the disaster, the staff at all levels of Parliament ensured the debate continued without disruption. As a Government, we will provide all possible relief to the public service and especially appreciate the vital role of Parliament staff at this critical time.

¶ 06 I thank the Secretary to the Treasury and officials of the Ministry of Finance, the Attorney-General and staff, the Government Printer and staff, and affiliated institutions including Police, the Medical Centre, Bank, Post Office, CEB, National Water Board, Fire Service, as well as external agencies such as SLTB, Kotte Municipal Council, STF, Navy, Army, Air Force detachments, and surrounding Police for security.

¶ 07 When flood levels rose dangerously close to the Parliamentary complex, the Land Development Corporation, the Armed Forces, the Sergeant-at-Arms and staff worked efficiently to prevent inundation—we appreciate their efforts.

¶ 08 I also thank all media—print, electronic, and social—and the sign language interpreters for their essential service. I note a shortage of Tamil language interpreters in Parliament who work under difficult conditions; I request, through your good offices and in consultation with the Government, that necessary Tamil and related interpreters be provided.

¶ 09 We extend gratitude to all who helped restore state functions after the recent disaster—the Defence Ministry, Tri-Forces, Police including STF, and all relief services; as well as Governors, District and Divisional Secretaries, and Grama Niladharis.

¶ 10 We also appreciate public servants who served tirelessly day and night, and the private sector, which contributed significantly, including to restoring telecommunications.

¶ 11 Lastly, we thank our people across the country who volunteered time, effort, and resources—cleaning homes and public places, rebuilding bridges, and providing health services. Such actions renew hope and help communities live again.

¶ 12 Let us act together with renewed energy to overcome challenges and build a better Sri Lanka in 2026. Thank you.