The Hon. K.V. Samantha Viddyarathna

¶ 01 Yes, we have. Views differ — some say retain it, others say remove it. Stakeholders also hold varied opinions. There are macroeconomic implications and a fiscal burden for the Treasury. Therefore, it’s not a decision to take instantly; we will consult stakeholders. For now, no change has been decided.

¶ 02 This is our Government’s first Budget debate for the new Ministry. Compared to past years, a larger allocation has been given to our Ministry. I thank the Hon. President and the Secretary to the Ministry of Finance and officials for recognizing this sector. The Government plans to raise GDP growth to between 3% and 3.5% in 2025, and our Ministry plays a role in that. I thank the President again for the resources.

¶ 03 I also thank our Secretary, Additional Secretaries, Director-Generals, Directors, Chairpersons, and all officials who are working tirelessly, day and night, with dedication. Some of our institutional Chairpersons must function without adequate emoluments or vehicles. Notably, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tea Board, Mr. Raj Obeyesekere, serves voluntarily, without remuneration — we appreciate his commitment. Our current Secretary has 20 years’ public service and additionally chairs the Plantation Human Resources body; he has declined a Rs. 200,000 monthly allowance. I thank him as well.

¶ 04 I thank the Hon. Speaker, the Secretary-General, and the staff of Parliament for their support. Our Ministry contributes significant dollars to the country because of our stakeholders, from major plantation companies down to smallholders. In coconut, 82% are smallholders; in tea, 75%; in rubber, around 60–70%. We thank them.

¶ 05 We must also acknowledge the plantation workforce, whose hard labour under harsh conditions sustains this sector and our country.

¶ 06 We will move toward our targets under our national and strategic plans. With the Deputy Minister and our officials, we are committed to achieving these goals.

¶ 07 We are pleased that although this sector had fallen, it is now rising again. New boards and directors are showing progress compared to when they assumed duties. With gratitude to all who support this effort, I conclude.