The Hon. Upul Kithsiri

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, today we present to this House regulations, rules and orders approved by the previous Cabinet. We see many justifiable aspects in these when studied, but the question is whether they were properly implemented. Under import-export laws, the responsibility for imported goods lies with the importing country, and for exports with the receiving country. Despite laws and opportunities to act, we saw ethanol containers and large quantities of contraband like toxic salmon entering the country. As a new Government, we expect to ensure quality in both exports and imports.

¶ 02 Recently, when unsuitable rice was imported, we re-exported it immediately. But previously, harmful goods entered. I recall, as a former local authority member, the controversy over Thriposha where we found weevils originating from abroad in supplies for pregnant mothers. Therefore, we have a responsibility to ensure quality food for our people, and we assure that we will fulfill that task.

¶ 03 Among today’s items is also the casino business. The Opposition’s Hon. Kabir Hashim asked what steps the new Government has taken. We know casinos operated for years, but we are putting in place proper measures and systems and will act responsibly.

¶ 04 He spoke of the Yahapalana 100 days. In 2015-2019, GDP growth fell from 5.5% to 2.7%, which he did not mention. He also cited debt only up to 2014, omitting 2015–2019, and forgot about US$ 12.7 billion in sovereign bonds. Regarding fertilizer subsidies, Hon. Namal Rajapaksa speaks now, but his uncle as President decided on 24 May 2021 to ban chemical fertilizers. We, with farmers, fought against it. In 2020 rice production was 4 million MT; by 2022 it fell to 1.6 million MT. When fertilizer was reintroduced, a bag rose to Rs. 40,000, and per hectare fertilizer cost was Rs. 372,000. We demanded a Rs. 100,000 subsidy; now prices have eased to around Rs. 10,000 per bag, but still high, so the President increased the subsidy to Rs. 25,000, understanding farmers’ issues.

¶ 05 We did politics with the people. We saw students coming to school in slippers; we saw only a few children able to eat in class. We saw farmers’ struggles without fertilizer. Villagers lack title deeds to their land; roads and water supplies are lacking. Understanding this, we came to Parliament and took office. No matter how much the Opposition shouts, we will do our duty. Judge us in five years—we will make this the best Government in the country’s history.

¶ 06 The National People’s Power Government works with the people. I have seen, over 22 years in local government, how public funds were wasted and stolen by members at all levels—some of whom are now in the Opposition. We know what was stolen from funds meant for children’s clothing and street lamps. We will rectify these step by step and deliver what people need. Thank you.