The Hon. M.A.M. Thahir

¶ 01 In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

¶ 02 Hon. Presiding Member, I am pleased to speak in today’s Committee Stage debate on the allocation to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock Resources, Lands and Irrigation.

¶ 03 This week, heavy rains are falling across the country. While people suffer from natural disasters, we are discussing agriculture, irrigation and lands. Last year too, during this period, many tragedies occurred. If we ask whether compensation was paid and whether people benefited, nothing seems to have happened. Even this morning in Sainthamaruthu, a vehicle plunged into a river and three lives were lost. Last year’s flood and this one were caused by the Mavadippalli river. During the rainy season, water flowing through that area cannot move fast enough, causing tragedy. We repeatedly raised Mavadippalli bridge and Kittangip Bridge in Parliament. Though the foundation stone was laid, works have not proceeded. For the safety of the people and farmers, we urge that these two bridges be taken up as a priority immediately.

¶ 04 Next, on production: From Pulmoddai to Pottuvil in the Eastern Province, there are vast extents of land lying as scrub and bush. These must be made suitable for cultivation. During the terrorist period, people could not access agricultural lands; after 30–35 years those lands have become forests. They have been gazetted as Forest Department lands, so people still cannot cultivate. On one hand we say increase production; on the other, lands are not released. Please release these lands and allow agriculture.

¶ 05 Government-owned vacant lands in our areas could be given for livestock development to locals or even to foreign investors, reducing milk powder imports and providing fresh milk at lower prices while creating jobs, especially in the East. Instead, we focus excessively on importing milk powder, with commissions taken during imports by past regimes. I urge you to act differently.

¶ 06 For a long time, the Vattamadu pasture issue has dragged on—some claim it is for cultivation, others for pasture. Past governments did not resolve it for political reasons. Today there is a trustworthy Government that can give hope. People have been waiting over a year. Please resolve it.

¶ 07 In the past, under the “Urumaya” program, issuing land deeds was attempted but delayed. The current Government has rebranded it as “Himikama.” That is fine—political branding is normal. But unlike previous governments, please complete it quickly.

¶ 08 As we travel across the country, especially Ampara and the East, we see many forests and vacant lands. Why can’t we cultivate or produce according to local climate and needs? Why doesn’t the Government try?

¶ 09 The Hon. Minister present is trusted and has long fought to use national resources well. Please use this opportunity properly.

¶ 10 Please, one more minute.

¶ 11 Vast lands lie idle, and rainwater runs to the sea. Why not adopt alternatives?

¶ 12 We also received earthquake-related alerts about Sumatra and possible tsunami; people are afraid. Please raise awareness and take steps for safety and development. I conclude. Thank you.