Hon. Namal Karunaratne - Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock

¶ 01 Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Minister, I answer as follows:

¶ 02 (a) (i) Yes. (ii) Yes. (iii) Although actions have been taken to provide grazing lands, the following obstacles exist: 1. Some families have settled on grazing lands; removing them threatens livelihoods and creates complex socio-economic issues. 2. Disputes over certain grazing lands are sub judice; future action will follow court determinations. 3. During Yala and Maha seasons, there is intense competition for land. In dry periods, irrigable land area is less than in rainy seasons; thus paddy farmers and livestock farmers compete for the same fertile irrigable lands.

¶ 03 (iv) Average daily milk production in Pottuvil is about 4,500 litres. At present, a Milkman Company facility with 6,000-litre capacity for collection and chilling operates in Pottuvil. Additionally, three private centres with 6,000-litre capacity each are functioning there. Current collection and chilling capacity is adequate for present daily production. Capacity can be increased in line with future production growth.

¶ 04 (b) Does not arise.