The Hon. S.M. Marikkar

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, while the Government claims to walk a middle path internationally, last week “Newswire” reported that Minister Anura Karunathilaka had discussed with the US safeguarding Sri Lanka’s ports and airports. Following that, Sergio Gore, the US envoy in New Delhi and key South Asia operative, and Michael Jeremiah from US House security oversight with South Asia intelligence oversight, both visited Sri Lanka. Why? The Government owes this House a clear explanation of what was discussed and agreed.

¶ 02 On Port City: President Ranil Wickremesinghe once said even carting away Sigiriya’s rocks would not make Port City succeed. Yet amidst this war, Port City can be our lifeline. With exports, remittances, and tourism all facing headwinds, we urgently need dollars. Use Port City as a platform. Bring in unsolicited proposals where appropriate to catalyze inflows swiftly. Do not wait until after the storm to take action—liberalize targeted channels now.

¶ 03 Urban Development Authority has 22 projects; it expects USD 500 million this year—expedite a portion within the next three months by easing procedures. As a responsible Opposition, we will not “mock” the QR system as some of you did earlier. But do answer: how does “work from home” apply to farming, fishing, restaurants, or tea plucking? Be practical.

¶ 04 It appears the Government is pre-emptively tightening controls out of fear of public protests. People are suffering; do not manage optics—solve problems.

¶ 05 On the coal scandal: Of 13 ships, 12 failed quality; this forced costly diesel generation. Monthly, about 1,500 MT of diesel are used for power; now about 5,000 MT are needed due to poor coal. This is a colossal loss. Delays have triggered demurrage—USD 445,000 for the first five vessels, plus USD 2 million penalties each for the 1st and 9th ships due to low kcal. Emergency procurement of five new ships at USD 30 more per MT means an extra USD 9 million for five shiploads. Who pays? Either power cuts or tariff hikes. We oppose cuts. Quality might improve with reputable suppliers, but the loss is historic.

¶ 06 Therefore, Minister Jayakody should resign to facilitate impartial inquiries; if cleared, he can return. I end with that challenge.

¶ 07 Thank you.