'PSC pledged in Mahinda Chintana'

Nadira GUNATILLEKE

President Mahinda Rajapaksa proposed to appoint a Parliamentary Select Committee to find a political solution to the issue because it is very clearly stated in Mahinda Chintana - Vision for the Future, Power and Energy Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka told the 'Daily News' yesterday. Minister Ranawaka pointed out that it is one of the pledges made by President Rajapaksa in his election manifesto presented to the people during 2010 Presidential election.

Minister Ranawaka

"Anybody can read it and find it out. It really stipulates that there will be an all party committee to oversee the pros and cons of the Provincial Council system and the outcome to be presented to Parliament and implemented.

According to Minister Ranawaka it is this pledge which was mandated by the people.

"The Parliamentary Select Committee is democratic and in keeping with our constitution.

"It is Parliament which can determine on constitutional matters.

"Anyway there should be a consensus and we urge the TNA to change their racist separatist ideology. The TNA is responsible for the poor state of affairs of the Tamil community.

"It should change its stance and accept the consensus of the majority or they will drag the Tamil community to another political and social mess, Minister Ranawaka pointed out.