Parliament

'Proper methodology needed to grant JP appointments'

Irangika RANGE and Disna MUDALIGE

Deputy Speaker Chandima Weerakkody presided, when Parliament met at 1.30 p.m yesterday. After presentation of papers and oral questions, the House took up the Private Members' motions for debate.

'Stating ones' race and religion in govt. documents is an impediment

Ravi Karunanayake (UNP): I present my private member's motion which forces the government to take necessary action to develop a strong Sri Lankan identity. I observe that the requirement to state one's race and religion in government documents, is an impediment and an inhibition to develop a strong national identity. I suggest it must be removed.

The government is presently attempting to promote a national integrity and ethnic harmony. The 30 - year long war has concluded. The time is ripe to think of bringing all communities together without allowing a polarization based on identity. We must promote a Sri Lankan identity. I hope my proposal would help towards this endeavor. We have to think beyond the usual traditions.

Eran Wickramarathne (UNP): I second the motion. We are all Sri Lankans. What is the reason that society is so keen on the incident of TNA MP R. Sampanthan waving a national flag during the May Day rally. It was welcomed by almost all Sri Lankans, except a few Tamils.

When we take the NIC into account, the reverse side of NICs in possession of Tamils are written both in Sinhala andTamil, whereas the reverse side of the NICs possessed by the Sinhalese are only written in Sinhalese. Why is this difference? I suggest that both sides of the NICs be written in both Sinhala and Tamil.

Independence was won with all communities joining together

A.H.M. Azwer (UPFA): We gained independence with the unison of all communities in the country. The Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims together contributed to this achievement.

There are specific norms relating to Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim cultures. The President participated at the Ifthar fast breaking ceremony. This was a highly appreciable example given to society by the head of the country.

These festivals allow people to share their traditional food with everybody. No Sri Lankan should be allowed to participate in meetings which attempt to divide the country.

A.H.M. Azwer takes the chair

M.A. Sumanthiran (TNA): The Sinhala Language was made the official language in 1956. Dr Colvin R de Silva, when this legislation was taken up in the House said, "If you have two languages, you will have one country, but if you have one language you will not be able to retain a single country." What prophetic words!

How had India retained India's identity? They have linguistic states and this concept had prevented disintegration of the country.

Ajith P. Perera (UNP): The birth certificate mentions as Sri Lankan, when the nationality is queried, it does not mention the ethnic group now, as in the past. But at present, the constitution had been properly amended for this move.

NIC does not include ethnic groups, but death certificate does'

National Languages and Social Integration Minister Vasudeva Nanayakkara: The Sri Lankan identity was not established in the country. The clashes and disputes among ethnic groups and other divisions did not allow the promotion of a Sri Lankan identity.

In population enumerations in the past, we queried even the clan. But it was not considered during the latest population census. The clan is not considered anymore.

The NIC does not include the ethnic group. But still the death certificate includes it.

Now the National Anthem is being sung in both languages. The Tamils sing it in their language, where as the Sinhalese sing it in their language.

The question concerning the language in the NICs is now being looked into. In future, all NICs would be issued in both languages. Let the issues be discussed during the Consultative Committee.

Ajith Kumara (DNA): It is true that the Sri Lankan identity could not be established just by changing the format of a document. But I think this move would lead to a change in the thinking pattern of the people.

R. Yogarajan (UNP): Karunanayake, MP had brought this motion with very noble intentions. However, I do not think the Sri Lankan society is matured enough for this change.

This is a change that must come from the heart. The people must feel that they are part of one identity and community.

Public Administration and Home Affairs Deputy Minister Wijaya Dahanayake: In order to build up a strong Sri Lankan identity, we have to identity the unique features of the people. There are various nationalities and whatever we change, should not cause any harm to them. We must unite to build a strong Sri Lankan identity for the benefit of the future generation.

A strong Sri Lankan identity is essential

Ravi Karunanayake (UNP)

I must say that a strong Sri Lankan identity is very essential. We all must get-together to rectify these problems. I wish to submit this motion to a special Select Committee to come up with urgent solutions for a better tomorrow.

Historical and archaeological sites must be protected

Then JVP MP Ajith Kumara, moved the private members' motion on protection, promotion and proper utilization of historical and archaeological heritages of Galle Fort and its surroundings for debate. It is necessary to take action to protect and promote historical and archaeological heritages of the Galle Rampart, inside the Galle Fort and in the surroundings of the Galle Fort, which is an important centre of the Tourism Industry. The site has a historical and archaeological value and it is considered as a World Heritage site.

Therefore, it is necessary to implement a systematic plan with the participation of community and public sector institutions, to make the best use of this World Heritage for the country. We had talks with the government of the Nertherlands to obtain its assistance for the maintenance of the site. The archaeological and historical values of the Galle Fort are day by day being destroyed. Therefore, the relevant authorities should take measures to preserve and protect it by amending necessary laws.

Galle Fort badly damaged by the Tsunami

Gayantha Karunathileke (UNP)

The Galle Fort had been badly damaged by the Tsunami waves in 2004. We are still able to see several destructions caused to the Fort. Therefore, attention should be paid to carry out the necessary reconstructions.

We know that a number of historical and archaeological sites throughout the country have been systematically subjected to destruction, under the instructions of the present rulers. Treasure hunting have increased. The Galle Fort is a tourist attraction. You can generate revenue while protecting the site. The Galle Fort which is a beautiful historical site, could be converted into a world famous city by preserving its archaeological values.

Galle Fort being maintained by National Heritage Ministry

National Heritage Minister Dr. Jagath Balasuriya: The government under the instructions of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, have been working for the protection and preserving of the historical and archaeological values of the Galle Fort and its surroundings. The Galle Fort Museum and sewege system hve been renovated and rehabilitated.

A sum of Rs. 200 million has been spent to construct roads within and around the Galle Fort. Ancient private houses have been preserved by the ministry. The Galle Fort is being maintained as a world heritage site by the National Heritage Ministry. We have allocated Rs. 4.5 million in 2010 to manage and maintain the site.

Ajith Kumara (JVP)

I urged the government to formulate a plan to safeguard and preserve the historical and archaeological values of the Galle Fort. Then UNP MP Buddhika Pathirana, moved a private member's motion on formulating a proper methodology for granting Justice of the Peace appointments for debate.

A proper methodology should be prepared for granting Justice of the Peace appointments. If not, the dignity and recognition of JP positions would deteriorate. Therefore, a proper methodology recognized by society, should be prepared to grant JP positions. GCE A/L qualification should be mandatory for such appointments which should be granted in a very transparent manner.

Ajith P. Perera (UNP): Our people are very keen to receive various posts. SP appointments are given as an honorary title. However, the respect for this post has declined. Sometimes people who are worthy of receiving this appointments are reluctant to do so. I question as to why these appointments are being granted.

Sometimes people who are highly respected by the people in villages are unable to receive this title since they do not possess the necessary qualification to hold this post.

A proper methodology must be formulated for granting of JP appointments

Water Supply and Drainage Minister Dinesh Gunawardena: The proposal made by Buddhika Pathirana MP is very timely and appropriate. I do not wish to say that the facts presented by the previous members on this matter, have no significance or reliance.

A proper methodology must be formulated for granting JP appointments. The government alone cannot work out this methodology. The consensus Parliament must be sought in this endeavour. Both government and opposition members must work in harmony for this purpose.

Ajith P. Perera takes the Chair:

Buddhika Pathirana (UNP): The Chief Government Whip in his speech pointed out that the UNP regimes in the past had committed certain wrong doings. As the young representatives of the UNP, we also condemn those acts. The wrong doings in the past must not be repeated. We have to learn lessons from the past and work for a better future.

The Chief Government Whip at the conclusion of his speech also stated that the present tradition in granting JP appointments will not be immediately changed. However, I request the government not to be driven by static policies, but to be flexible.

Next A.H.M. Azwer presented his private member motion

A.H.M. Azwer (UPFA): I propose that steps be taken to encourage the cultivation of Palmyra, known as "Katpagatharu" which is very useful for the public and to promote productions related to Palmyra.

There are 3.5m Palmyra trees in Jaffna district alone.

Palmyra trees can also be seen in areas such as Hambantota and Puttlam. The government has allocated a considerable sum of money for Palmyra cultivation. The uses of Palmyrah trees are similar to those of coconut trees. This tree which is similar to the coconut tree is referred to as "Kapruka" in Sinhala, due to its invaluable use.

The 'Shipa Exhibition' has already been conducted twice and it is to be held for the third time by the end of August. This is an appreciable move and it recognizes the skills and creativity of our people.

Hunais Farook (UPFA): I second this motion that the Palmyra cultivation must be encouraged, specially in the Northern Province. The Palmyra Industry is one area which had been devastated due to the brutal war.

A large number of products are made from various parts of this tree. People get immense benefits from this tree. The Palmyra industry must be developed through the Divi Neguma programme.

TNA only interested in misleading the IC but not interested of the people

Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Deputy Minister Weerkumara Dissanayake: The Palmyra trees are largely grown in the Northern province. The Palmyra industry has high importance to the people in this area. However, I regret that no TNA MP is here to present his opinions on this matter.

They are only interested in misleading the international community with numerous false allegations against the government. They have no real interest in working for the betterment of the people in the Northern Province. Atleast to provide a constructive criticism, they must have been here today.

About 4 million Palmyra trees have been destroyed due to the war in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. Now Palmyra cultivation in these areas is being boosted.

The Palmyra Research Institute, which had dilapidated due to the war, had now been reconstructed. We are grateful to the forces for protecting this institute at least for that condition during the war.

The Palmyra tree is a very special tree grown on the soils of the Northern area. The Palmyra string is very hardy and could be used for many varieties of work.

The government has paid high attention to the development of this industry.

A.H.M. Azwer (UPFA): The TNA should help the government in development activities in the North and East. Instead, they are bringing out foolish and immature criticism against the government.

The TNA has no interest in the development of the Northern Province. The Government is re-cultivating the Palmyra trees destroyed by war. About 3.2 million - 4 million Palmyra, trees have been destroyed due to war.

At Adjournment

Divi Neguma will help stop consumption of liqour, drugs

Economic Development Deputy Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, yesterday stated in Parliament that the Divi Neguma programme would contribute to the reduction of consumption of drugs and hard liquor by boosting the domestic economy.

He observed that the discipline of the society could not be uplifted without raising the income levels of the people.

He made this observation, responding to an adjournment motion moved by UPFA MP Victor Anthony.

Victor Anthony (UPFA): The 'Mathata Thitha' programme launched by the government is a very positive endeavour. I propose that this programme be extended effectively for the welfare of the society. Many young people have been addicted to alcohol and drugs due to TV dramas and advertisements. People have lost their dignity due to consuming illicit alcohol. People die at a very young age as a result of consuming alcohol.

Selling and consuming of illicit liquor destroys life. Police records reveal illicit brewing and selling points. Those who run these places should be directed for self-employment opportunities.

Action should be taken to provide necessary training, facilities to initiate their own businesses under "Divi Neguma Programme".

Ajith P. Perera (UNP): I second this motion. This motion is important to the whole country. The Police have records of the people who are engaged in selling drugs and illicit liquor.

If the government had a real will to eliminate the drugs and illicit liquor meance; it should implement the Mahinda Chinthana policy framework which had pledged to eradicate the drugs and illicit liquor menace within three years.

Economic Development Deputy Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardene: Our most vital need for the past few years had been the eradicating of terrorism. We achieved this target.

Now the government has given priority to eliminate the drug and illicit liquor menace in the country. We are working towards it to achieve this aim under the Mathata Thitha Programme.

We have increased taxes imposed on cigarette imports for the past many years. Under the Divi Neguma projects, we expect to uplift the livelihood of the rural villagers. People who are involved in illicit liquor brewing, would be introduced to self-employment opportunities.

Most of the shops have given up selling cigarettes. Our major objective is to save society from drugs, cigarettes and liquor. We have targeted to select 100 families and improve their livelihoods. Various awareness programmes have been carried out to educate youth consuming alcohol and drugs.

The House adjourned until 1.00 p.m on August 21.

Bill presented to establish Divineguma Development Dept.

Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa yesterday presented a Bill in Parliament to provide for the establishment of the Divineguma Development Department.

The new department is to be established by amalgamating three Authorities. The three authorities include the Samurdhi, Southern Development and Udarata Development Authorities.

The new department is being set up to establish the 'Divineguma' community based organizations at rural level and to provide for a co-ordinating network at district level and national level. It will also cater to the establishment of 'Divineguma' Community based banks and banking societies. The Samurdhi Authority of Sri Lanka Act, No. 30 of 1995, Southern Development Authority of Sri Lanka Act, No. 18 of 1996 and the Udarata Development Authority of Sri Lanka Act, No. 26 of 2005 will be repealed by the Bill. The Economic Development Minister presented the Bill at the commencement of public business in Parliament. The second reading of the Bill would be taken up at a future date.