The Hon. Ananda Wijepala - Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, Hon. Rauff Hakeem referred to my statement on Myanmar irregular migrants. A total of 116 persons have entered Sri Lanka. Investigations by the police indicate they paid money to smugglers—around 500,000 kyat for the boat and a further 800,000 kyat for transit payments to organizers. Investigations are ongoing. If they are identified as refugees, we are prepared to act in accordance with international law. At present, under the Department of Immigration and Emigration, all necessary facilities—food and other essentials—are provided. Police and intelligence reports indicate plans for as many as 100,000 irregular migrants to attempt to come to Sri Lanka in the future, which we recognize as a social concern.

¶ 02 As you said, this is also a humanitarian issue. If identified as refugees, we will act accordingly and provide all humanitarian assistance. Children and others currently at the site are being looked after. After health checks, the Human Rights Commission will be allowed access; other institutions too can be engaged. Of the 116, 12 were in custody but have been released by court order and returned to the main facility. Thank you.