The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Chairman, throughout today Government Members and Ministers have clearly stated there is no disruption in fuel supply; the Hon. Minister of Health and Media detailed the distribution numbers. Yet the Opposition irresponsibly tries to sow distrust between Government and people, stoking panic. Their behaviour, and sections of the media, caused last night’s panic buying. We will continue to explain—again and again if necessary—that there is no need to queue.

¶ 02 Regarding the Hon. Minister of Justice’s gentlemanly conduct: it is beyond question. He stands on the right side of history and is doing the right thing. The only complaint is that he called the former President a “beggar”—that insults beggars, who do not steal public funds, whereas the former President did.

¶ 03 On the subject: access to justice must be widened within a very tight fiscal space. The Legal Aid Commission plays a crucial role in giving low-income people access to courts; its officers perform a heavy duty. Although we could not increase its allocation much this year, in future we should expand targeted legal aid, especially for workers and those around industrial zones.

¶ 04 Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) must be strengthened. The Department of Debt Conciliation Board (DCB), which most do not even know exists, does important work resolving disputes over mortgaged immovable properties. Its budget has been increased by 30 percent for 2025, and two additional branches will be established.

¶ 05 Mediation Boards, a key ADR mechanism, are vital amid the surge in civil disputes caused by the recent economic crisis, rising indebtedness, and family conflicts. The allocation for Mediation Boards has been increased by 118 percent—more than doubled—for 2025. Specialized Mediation Boards are to be set up in Colombo, Gampaha, Kandy, Monaragala, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura—areas heavily affected by indebtedness and financial disputes.

¶ 06 Finally, crimes against women and children have become a silent epidemic. Although legal provisions exist—especially for domestic violence—implementation is hampered by pressures and systemic gaps. The justice system must respond more efficiently and sensitively, and future budgets should allocate resources accordingly. Thank you.