The Hon. (Ms.) Ambika Samivel

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, greetings.

¶ 02 As plantation workers’ wages are being much discussed, I wish to note: this is the first Budget where a wage increase has been given without protests. Earlier, a month before the Budget, protests were instigated and promises made; then the Budget would come without increases. This time, without protests, the Government itself considered the matter and committed: Rs. 200 from Government and Rs. 200 from companies based on attendance—due to the President’s commitment in the 2025 Budget discussions to secure Rs. 1,750 through negotiations. Talks continued for nine months and today companies have come forward to increase daily wages by Rs. 200. The old culture of starting protests before the Budget and stopping after has ended; now wages are increased through the Budget. As we told the Upcountry people, Rs. 1,750 will be given—no doubt.

¶ 03 This is not the Opposition’s Budget; it is the National People’s Power Government’s Budget. A previous Member claimed roads are not being built in the hills. Today, carpeted roads are being laid. Come to Badulla: the Haputale road is being carpeted for Rs. 400 million; the Bandarawela–Poonagala road and Thampetenna road are being carpeted. Previously neglected roads are being carpeted now. He also said not a single brick has been laid for housing. Sir, I went to Poonagala and saw houses built; even for land filling there was no allocation previously; now the Government is building houses. Those who promised earlier did not even provide quality cement or bricks; they left the burden to us. Tell us whether even 50 quality houses were built by those who boast. Today taxpayers’ money is being used properly for the people.

¶ 04 The Upcountry people have sent leaders who understand their pains. The NPP Government works for the people’s welfare. This Budget is designed to benefit them. Thank you.