Hon. Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, an Opposition Member raised some matters; I wish to respond.

¶ 02 The Vavuniya Economic Centre was constructed around 2015 at a cost of Rs. 295 million. Though people pointed out the site as unsuitable and proposed an alternative, it was nevertheless built at that unsuitable site and remains largely unused. In our District Development Committee we have already resolved to repurpose and utilize it effectively, and we will implement those plans.

¶ 03 In the recent Local Government Elections, in comparison to the Parliamentary Election, our National People’s Power increased its vote in Mannar and also in Vavuniya and Mullaitivu. In Vavuniya, by seat count, NPP obtained the highest number — 26 seats — more than any other party. In Mannar, too, NPP secured the most — 19 seats. In Mullaitivu, NPP obtained 12 seats. Whatever others say, the people of the North and East have again shown through their votes that NPP acts justly and is free of ethnic, religious, or linguistic chauvinism.

¶ 04 We will make correct decisions to uplift people’s economy and ensure all necessary measures. On land issues, on the 23rd, under the leadership of the Hon. Prime Minister, we will discuss with all parties and take suitable action — a message I wish to convey to the nation.

¶ 05 On roads long neglected, the Government has allocated Rs. 5,000 million to the Northern Province this year — higher than allocations to other provinces — to rehabilitate roads and related infrastructure for war-affected communities. The President, Prime Minister, Ministers and MPs are considerate and committed to doing what is possible. We have no racism or sectarianism.

¶ 06 On embarkation fees: at BIA, MRIA, Ratmalana, and Palaly, the Government has made changes — a full waiver for MRIA and 50% reduction for others. MRIA, built at vast cost, was sited and managed poorly and even used as a paddy store, causing economic setbacks. Now, with full waivers, tourists can be attracted to come via MRIA since their air tickets are cheaper, increasing foreign exchange and enabling infrastructure development.

¶ 07 At Palaly, many of our relatives in Europe and elsewhere can benefit from the 50% concession — from USD 60 to USD 30 — promoting travel via Palaly and increasing national revenue. We expect about three million tourists this year; already about one million have arrived since January, bringing USD 900 million. Three million visitors could bring USD 4 billion.

¶ 08 We also need better facilities at BIA. When Japan sought to fund a new terminal, that project was stopped due to a bribe demanded by the then Aviation Minister under President Gotabaya Rajapaksa; the Japanese Ambassador complained and the Minister resigned. Later, Ranil Wickremesinghe reappointed him to the same ministry — an unfortunate episode. Our Government is now reviving that terminal project. This shows that a government without corruption and fraud will attract future international assistance.

¶ 09 On Luxury Tax: earlier it applied over Rs. 3.5 million; now the threshold is raised to Rs. 5 million. You cannot buy even a basic Alto or Maruti at Rs. 3.5 million today. With taxes reduced on vehicles, ordinary people can now purchase up to Rs. 5 million without Luxury Tax.

¶ 10 In the North, we have proven our strength again. People voted for us recognizing the integrity of our governance. They have rejected false propaganda against us. We will be grateful and will deliver necessary facilities and opportunities, and establish just governance, whatever opposition arises. Thank you.