"Parliament Debates Prohibition of Terrorist Logos Display and Urgent Measures for Flood Damage Reduction in Galle and Matara Districts"

In a session held yesterday (6) at Parliament, Justice Minister Dr. Wijayadasa Rajapakshe addressed the assembly, emphasizing the inappropriateness of displaying prohibited terrorist logos during commemorations. Acknowledging the right of individuals to remember their deceased relatives, the Minister underscored that the use of flags and slogans associated with banned organizations is unacceptable.

The statement came in response to MP Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam's proposal to suspend the Terrorism Act. Minister Rajapakshe also mentioned the submission of a law amendment regarding confession to Parliament, which faced challenges in the Supreme Court. Notably, the Easter attack occurred a day after this submission, during the implementation of the Prevention of Terrorism Act.

Highlighting the Act's importance for national security, the Minister stressed that it was in effect irrespective of the government or President in power. He disclosed that 48 charge sheets had been filed under this Act, providing a three-day window for ideas and proposals for its amendment. The Minister expressed concern that despite this opportunity, only a few parties, including law faculty students, non-governmental organizations, and Ambassadors/High Commissioners, submitted comments.

MP Sumanthiran's call for the removal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act raised concerns about the country's security. Minister Rajapakshe argued that removing the anti-terrorism bill would pose security challenges, emphasizing the need to prevent terrorism and condemning acts supporting it. He highlighted the efforts of the security forces in preventing actions deemed unacceptable under the law.

Shifting the focus, State Minister of Defence Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon informed Parliament about the expedited project to reduce flood damage in Galle and Matara Districts. Ensuring a positive solution for the affected population, Tennakoon underscored the urgency of addressing flood-related issues in these regions.

"State Minister Advocates for Flood Mitigation and Modernization of Meteorology Department"

Responding to queries from MP Weerasumana Weerasinghe, State Minister of Defence highlighted the recurring flood disasters in the Galle-Matara area, occurring approximately once every four years. He stressed the necessity for substantial government investment to provide subsidies and lamented the limited success of recent measures to curb river water damage. Detailing ongoing efforts, he revealed that a project initiated in the last season aims to reduce flood damage in Galle and Matara while diverting water to Hambantota District—an initiative now expedited for swift implementation.

In addition to flood management, the State Minister addressed the modernization of the Meteorology Department in response to MP Madhura Withanage's inquiry. He disclosed that the department's modernization has commenced, with plans to seek World Bank assistance. Emphasizing the department's goal of delivering more reliable forecasts, he acknowledged the current lack of an advanced system for weather information presentation. Comparing with developed countries charging for such services, he emphasized the potential for modernized reports to benefit sectors like agriculture, energy, aviation, and shipping, eventually contributing to revenue generation.

Acknowledging the rising environmental pollution during monsoon rains, the State Minister expressed concern over reports indicating a severe pollution level. Recognizing the need for a regional solution, he highlighted recent discussions between the President and the United States President's special representative on climate change. The meeting addressed environmental concerns, indicating a commitment to finding solutions for mitigating pollution and fostering sustainable environmental practices.

"In conclusion, the State Minister's responses to parliamentary inquiries shed light on the government's proactive approach to addressing critical issues in the Galle-Matara area. The urgency of mitigating recurrent flood disasters has prompted a swift and expedited implementation of a project aimed at reducing damage and redirecting water flow. Simultaneously, the commitment to modernizing the Meteorology Department underscores the government's recognition of the importance of accurate weather forecasts for various sectors.

The Minister's acknowledgment of the need for international assistance, particularly from the World Bank, reflects a strategic approach to ensure the success of these initiatives. The potential benefits of a modernized Meteorology Department, with improved forecasting capabilities, are highlighted as a means to enhance sectors such as agriculture, energy, aviation, and shipping.

Furthermore, the Minister's concern over rising environmental pollution during monsoon rains emphasizes the government's commitment to sustainable practices. Recent discussions between the President and the United States President's special representative on climate change signal a collaborative effort to find regional solutions to environmental challenges.

Overall, the State Minister's responses reveal a comprehensive strategy that combines immediate actions for flood mitigation with long-term plans for technological advancement and environmental sustainability, showcasing a commitment to addressing pressing issues for the benefit of the nation and its citizens."