Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition

¶ 01 Hon. Minister, if there is a shortcoming here, please answer—no issue. Our duty is to bring the people’s issues here and obtain solutions. That is not wrong. Therefore, please do not be agitated.

¶ 02 We are told that across 13–14 active economic centres, assets worth roughly Rs. 6 billion exist, according to traders and farmers.

¶ 03 Do you know the fear of those farmers? Arbitrary handing over of those state assets and lands to a private company. They have developed these assets for 22 years. I am speaking about the Thambuttegama Economic Centre. It is to be given on a 33-year lease with sub-leasing permitted. You know the agriculture marketing network—from seeds to fertilizer to agrochemicals—this begins by supplying inputs to farmers. It is not a burden on the State. The fear is that without structured consultation with all stakeholders, a Cabinet paper has been brought and approved. Please focus on this and provide clarity and assurances.