The Hon. (Mrs.) Sagarika Athauda, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, today we debate a regulation and several orders prepared by the previous Government.

¶ 02 As a Government, we are ready to continue any good programme needed by the country—even if presented by the previous Government—if it serves the people’s aspirations and welfare.

¶ 03 In the past, people produced their own food in home gardens or localities. With population growth and complex needs, food became an industry. With industrialization, quality concerns arose—about genetically modified foods, harmful chemical additives, unfit foods, and expired products. Despite regulatory bodies like the Food Control Administration Unit and the Sri Lanka Standards Institution, issues persisted. Consequently, malnutrition, overnutrition, and non-communicable diseases have affected us. Food is essential from birth to death; hence its primacy in human needs and rights instruments.

¶ 04 Yet in the 2022 Global Food Security Index among 113 countries, Sri Lanka ranked near the bottom. We repeatedly heard concerns about GM foods, about Thriposha and the maize used, about milk powder and coconut oil. Therefore, regulation is needed. As the NPP Government, we believe people must have access to quality healthcare—Sri Lanka ranked 105th in the 2024 Healthcare Index—so we have a big target and challenge to establish quality health services and a healthy generation. That requires proper systems in food quality, compliance with standards, import standards, and standards in distribution and retail.

¶ 05 We also speak of “Clean Sri Lanka.” Its ultimate goal is to produce citizens beneficial to themselves, the country, and the environment—loving citizens. Clean food and toxin-free diets are citizens’ rights. Ensuring access to quality, toxin-free meals must be a priority. We must curb food-borne diseases, be mindful of flavor enhancers and harmful chemicals, and ensure quality food. Many now eat whatever is available due to hunger; we must ensure every citizen’s right to a toxin-free, quality meal. That is the foundation for a strong citizenry. We stand ready as a Government to ensure this. Thank you.