The Hon. Ajith P. Perera

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, these Regulations are made under powers vested in the Minister of Health by the NMRA Act, No. 5 of 2015, passed on 19 March 2015. That law, rooted in Prof. Senaka Bibile’s rational medicines policy recognized by WHO and UNCTAD, created a strong legal basis to assure price and quality. We can be proud that the current Government can modernize governance using that robust law. These Regulations arise under it.

¶ 02 The 2025 Regulations introduce two key elements: Maximum Retail Price (MRP) and Maximum Distribution Price. We, in the Opposition, welcome this new pricing formula that benefits consumers without unfairness to manufacturers and traders. We support it.

¶ 03 However, price is only one issue; quality assurance remains critical. Quality varies by manufacturer and country. Even when we urge prescribing by generic, doctors still consider trusted brands due to experiential quality differences. Thus, alongside the price formula, we must further strengthen regulation, facilities, and post-market surveillance.

¶ 04 Another major challenge is the inadequacy of medicines in state hospitals. Despite poverty and high private costs, people continue to trust free public healthcare. Free health, like free education, is a right. The state must ensure adequate supply and quality in both public and private sectors.

¶ 05 The Leader of the Opposition noted a shortage of about 100 items at Kalutara General Hospital, Nagoda. I do not blame the Minister; it reflects a broader national issue. Essential chronic medicines—diabetes, cardiac, etc.—are sometimes unavailable or only in limited quantities.

¶ 06 Procurement efficacy is a core problem. While preventing corruption is important, the system must be efficient. We should accelerate e-procurement to minimize delays and corruption, and ensure timely availability at designated facilities.

¶ 07 I appeal to the Government to ensure timely availability in required quantities, using modern, transparent processes, leveraging the NMRA Act and necessary regulations.

¶ 08 On Suwaseriya ambulance service: I thank the Minister for assuring that its name, colour, and purpose remain unchanged. Confusion arose due to contradictory public statements by Government figures. Government must speak with one voice to avoid undermining trust and service delivery.

¶ 09 I also acknowledge the Minister’s contributions to Kalutara District health infrastructure, including establishing a medical faculty link and improving Nagoda Hospital. I urge priority for upgrading Panadura Base Hospital given population growth and prior partial donor funding that was insufficient.

¶ 10 Thank you.