The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda

¶ 01 Mr. Deputy Speaker, Mahinda Rajapaksa is the only leader in modern history who ended a war through war. There is no need to re-argue the risks to his life. LTTE sympathizers, the Tamil diaspora, and other groups push this Government to chip away at his security to exact revenge for ending the war. I believe it is the Government’s duty—not ours here—to ensure his security, including restoring his bulletproof vehicle if needed.

¶ 02 On today’s Bill at Second Reading: in March, WADA declared that Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency (SLADA) was not compliant with the WADA Code. The Government did not respond with urgency during the observation period or bring necessary legal amendments, leading to SLADA’s suspension. This has caused major issues: participation in WADA-organized programs and access to grants and assistance are jeopardized. Part of that responsibility lies with the Government.

¶ 03 We now face the absurdity that in the Olympics, Paralympics, world championships, and regional games, we could be prevented from competing under our flag. While we welcome this Bill, the Government must accept responsibility for the losses from the delay.

¶ 04 At the grassroots, school and village athletes face soaring equipment costs. A Mikasa original volleyball that was Rs. 5,700 is now about Rs. 12,000; good footballs are around Rs. 7,500; a pair of running spikes is about Rs. 20,000. For leather-ball cricket, rural low-income families cannot afford even a basic kit—about Rs. 60,000—and more advanced gear costs Rs. 200,000–300,000. Children drop out for economic reasons. I urge removal of taxes on sports goods to keep rural children in sport.

¶ 05 In Galle and other districts, smallholder tea is in crisis. Since tea began in 1867, 158 years have passed, but today smallholders across roughly 600 of 800 GN divisions in my district face severe constraints and lack capital to maintain cultivation. While we welcome recent auction successes in Japan and the strengthening of the Ceylon Tea brand—credit due to past efforts—benefits must reach rural smallholders through targeted incentives and support.

¶ 06 In the Smallholder Tea Development Authority, especially in Galle, there are acute staff shortages. Only about 12 of the needed 23 research/extension officers are in place. To advance tea, Government must provide resources.

¶ 07 Regarding illegal “ice” drugs, some now use it as a populist topic to hide failures. We repeatedly asked in this House about the release of 323 containers. The same Government that claims drugs came in containers tries to smear other parties. Who took responsibility for releasing those 323 containers? The President-appointed committee’s report should be tabled. Why hasn’t it been? We respectfully demand it be tabled.

¶ 08 Sathosa is also in trouble. The popular Karapitiya Sathosa outlet—the district’s top earner—was removed. Was it to help nearby multinational retail outlets? Sathosa exists to regulate essential prices, yet it is being run down. Sathosa goods are sometimes costlier than private shops. People suspect a move toward shutting Sathosa. Clarify this.

¶ 09 On the anti-doping Bill: besides passing it, the Government must educate athletes and coaches about prohibited substances. Without awareness, the intended message will not reach society.

¶ 10 Finally, restore free access for district sports grounds and training facilities—built during the tenures of former Ministers—so grassroots athletes can train without fees. I support passing this important Bill to promote disciplined, vibrant sport and nurture a new generation of athletes.

¶ 11 Thank you.