The Hon. K. Ilangkumaran

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, today we are participating in the Adjournment Debate regarding coal procurement for the Norochcholai thermal power plant.

¶ 02 Truly, the Government has acted with transparency. Ten bidders took part. The Minister clearly explained this, yet the Opposition brings this motion to mislead the public. We see it as an attempt to create a false image. When they were in Government they deceived the people with lies; that is why they now sit in the Opposition. Even now they seek to mislead the people, thinking they can regain power. But the people are not fools; they are fully aware. Their lies will not confuse the people.

¶ 03 Norochcholai produces 900 MW, contributing 30–40 percent of total power. Our Government called tenders and awarded to the lowest bidder transparently. The Opposition’s bidders did not win; hence they bring such motions, wasting Parliament’s time. These motions backfire on them.

¶ 04 We must move towards renewable energy. In the Northern Province, solar can produce much power; wind as well. Environment-friendly generation is possible. Electricity consumption is rising daily, including due to the influx of electric vehicles. Therefore, we are giving due attention to renewables while also ensuring power supply obligations to the people. In the past, tenders were not called and non-transparent permits were issued to individuals to import coal—the Minister explained. Today people bear that burden.

¶ 05 In the latest Corruption Perceptions Index, our country has advanced 14 places. Yet those now in the Opposition say we are corrupt. If so, are the global indices false, and only the Opposition true? We are now 107th, moving up 14 places in a year. We will continue to move forward, not backward. Many international organisations say Sri Lanka is reviving quickly; the people also believe this. That is why support for the NPP Government is increasing.

¶ 06 The Opposition said the Government would fall in six months. They keep lying; the people see this, and support for the NPP Government grows. Previously, the ruling party had no support in the North; now many from the North have been elected for the NPP, and many from the North are in Government. The trust in the Government grows.

¶ 07 When the President or Prime Minister visits the North, people gather in unity and support. That support arises from the Government’s actions. When the Opposition spreads lies, people recognise them as lies, and the Opposition gets pushed aside.

¶ 08 Yesterday, they said we accepted shadow ministries. These are mere rumours. The Governor was appointed by the President. We support the Governor to function effectively, and we often meet him. They get votes from Jaffna and live in luxury homes in Colombo, coming to Jaffna only when there is a meeting. They bring falsehoods to this august House. The people tell us: “Let them say what they want; you do your duties honestly, and support will grow.”

¶ 09 Therefore, they come to Parliament to shout and leave. If you look at the Hansard, their words go against them. Day by day, support among Tamils for the NPP grows. The NPP Government will not betray any citizen—Tamil, Sinhala, or Muslim. We see all as citizens of this country. With that, I conclude. Thank you.