The Hon. (Dr.) Elayathamby Srinath

¶ 01 Hon. Chairman, thank you for the opportunity to speak in the Committee Stage debate on the Defence Ministry and the Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs.

¶ 02 On behalf of the Tamil people, I must raise several issues. Since the NPP Government took office, we welcome positive actions by the Ministry of Public Security, especially against narcotics and the underworld.

¶ 03 However, over 100 shootings and more than 50 deaths occurred this year. There is still inconsistency and inadequacy in certain areas. Despite repeated requests from us as people’s representatives for our own security, you have often ignored them. When we ask for security, we are told those who seek protection are themselves involved in crimes. In truth, we have a duty to speak out against illegality and stand with the people—yet even for us there is no proper arrangement for protection.

¶ 04 Critically, illicit alcohol, illegal sand mining, and illegal fishing remain uncontrolled. In Batticaloa District, when the Minister of Public Security visited to initiate measures, we highlighted many needs. But due to manpower shortages and other reasons, matters remain unresolved. Illegal sand mining and illicit alcohol production continue. Through the Pradeshiya Sabhas, when we try to act as people’s representatives, there is a serious shortage of Police manpower and facilities.

¶ 05 Therefore, you must urgently strengthen human resources; we will support that. In Tamil areas, there are very few women Police officers—please prioritize this. At the District Development Committee, the Minister acknowledged the difficulty in obtaining manpower. This is why we stress devolving certain policing powers through the Provincial Council system to better prevent crimes locally.

¶ 06 Beyond that, to control illegal fishing, the Navy has the resources and personnel, but…