The Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar - Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, thank you for the opportunity.

¶ 02 Today’s debate is important—it concerns amendments to bring matters under the Intellectual Property Act into a common regulatory framework. Why are these brought now? So we can secure ownership over products we truly produce. Though we produce tea, vegetables, coconut and palmyrah products, when others produce similar goods, we often cannot legally assert our rights. For example, we all believe “Ceylon Tea” is ours—does it have legal force globally? Often, no. These amendments aim to secure our ownership over our products.

¶ 03 While many speak only of a few items, we should also focus on palmyrah-based products. Not only in the North and East—across 11 districts—there are about 15 million palmyrah trees. Over 800 products are made and sold, which can bring pride to our country. The Minister in charge of palmyrah, Hon. Samantha Viddyarathna, is here. After taking charge of Plantation, he has also focused on developing palmyrah—upgrading products.

¶ 04 For over 30 years, this sector was destroyed. Trees were felled arbitrarily; lands and assets were sold off. Our government has started a revival programme. Global demand exists for palmyrah-derived toddy, arrack, wines, and other products. Experts project that within two years, revenues could reach Rs. 2.5 billion.

¶ 05 Just as we secure rights for tea and other products, we must also secure rights for palmyrah products under these amendments—through GIs or related IP tools. This ownership is not for individuals; it should be conferred on palmyrah development associations in our country.

¶ 06 I must also note with concern that instead of constructive inputs, the Opposition is creating fear, levelling false accusations, and slinging mud at government initiatives. A Member just now claimed even drinking water is at risk—we will inform the House shortly on this matter. Creating panic will not whitewash 76 years of misrule that bankrupted this nation and enriched a few as tycoons by treating national assets as family property.

¶ 07 [Interjections and points of order omitted as directed by the Chair.]

¶ 08 This amendment is vital to protect and enhance our intellectual property. Many products not usually visible to the public can also be brought under protection. We should take steps to recognize and secure such assets.

¶ 09 [Time limit reached.]