The Hon. Sunil Biyanwila

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson, we are debating amendments to the Aswesuma payment scheme. Why did we have to bring this to Parliament? Over 76 years, policies led us to crises — from the chemical fertilizer ban that devastated farmers to a severe economic collapse that brought down industries, particularly SMEs. This affected education, health, and required us to double or triple social assistance from a low base — an unsustainable burden.

¶ 02 We all faced hardship; public servants and citizens cut back. For the lowest income groups, even three meals became difficult. Therefore, we increased the elderly allowance, enhanced Aswesuma, and extended durations, prioritizing life and dignity over other expenditures. This is not meant to run forever; we are cutting unnecessary spending, including tabling legislation to end unsustainable pension promises for those beyond 500 grades, to redirect resources to the vulnerable.

¶ 03 We aim to rebuild a productive economy — agriculture, tourism, new industries — reducing dependency. During disasters, we acted with fiscal discipline and solidarity. Public officials worked beyond hours and even donated portions of salaries. That spirit enabled emergency support: Rs. 25,000 for cleaning homes, Rs. 50,000 for essentials, and more under legal frameworks. We also provided Rs. 6,000 for schoolchildren in Aswesuma families, and increased support to kidney patients and the elderly. While the Opposition opposed even a Rs. 200 wage increase for plantation workers, we will continue to prioritize people.

¶ 04 We are establishing new sectoral strengths — e.g., a Cinnamon Development Department — and promoting tourism and agriculture. Our goal is a country where people live by their own effort with better health and education, not permanent relief. We invite the Opposition to join us.