The Hon. Naina Thambi Marrikkar Mohamed Thahir

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, today we have regulations and a Bill: regulations related to sports, and a tax Bill. The question is whether anyone can sustain industry paying 36% tax. At 36%, no entrepreneur or industrialist can move forward. Even Hon. Dudley Sirisena, a major industry figure, says this cannot continue with such taxes. Doubling from 18% to 36% crushes the economy and industries. We will not support this; taxes must be reduced.

¶ 02 The Sports Minister said there are about 70 sports associations and no one can hold office beyond eight years. That is good; we thank him. Our former Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara, who is here, notes that a proposal he had brought is now being implemented, and we appreciate that.

¶ 03 The President presented a relief package, nicely articulated. But implementation is the issue. After the “Ditsa” cyclone, Rs. 50 billion was allocated, yet it has not reached the rural people effectively. At official levels, people face circulars and red tape which frustrate access. Regarding fertilizer, fuel relief, and Rs. 150,000 for large boats—if truly given, we are happy; but implementation burdens the people.

¶ 04 Fertilizer is expensive; fuel prices are high—can one sustain agriculture like this? The sector is down. The Government must study and provide real relief. Vegetable prices are down at farm-gate; transport costs are up due to fuel, so produce is not moved. Everything is stuck; please look into it.

¶ 05 In our Kalpitiya area, a hospital has been completed for years but is kept closed. I requested the Health Minister to open it so 85,000–100,000 people benefit; otherwise the big expenditure is wasted.

¶ 06 On the Opposition Leader attending a book launch: when invited, politicians or anyone can attend; it is not a big issue. He went, saw who was there, and spoke when asked. He did not necessarily endorse the content. As Opposition Leader and party leader, he goes to many places. There is no problem in his attendance.

¶ 07 With the economic downturn, if the President’s relief is truly delivered, it is good. But do not make people run to GN, AGA and DFO offices dealing with circulars. Please simplify and deliver the relief. Thank you for the opportunity.