MP Welgama, Min. Nimal Siripala in a heated exchange during budget debate

A heated argument took place between MP Kumara Welgama and Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva during the budget debate on Wedenesday, December 09.

UPFA MP, Kumar Welgama stated that a commission of $10,000 was taken from 2200 buses, each, that were taken on a lease basis.

He added that they sling mud at him since he was the first to leave and join the National Government.

He went on to note that if 10 000 dollars was taken in commission, they should sling mud at the officials.

Minister of Transport, Nimal Siripala De Silva stated that 1899 individuals who were employed as drivers, conductors and technicians, are engaged in other duties, and not what they were contracted for.

He added that a proper procedure has not been undertaken to resolve the EPF and ETF issues as MP Welgama says the revenue earned from leasing the buses were insufficient to even maintain them.

MP Welgama:
You are the Minister. You agreed to these.

Minister Nimal Siripala:
I was not the Minister of Transport.

MP Welgama:
You were part of the Cabinet.

Minister Nimal Siripala:
It is true that I was part of the Cabinet.

MP Welgama:
You raised your hand that day, but you are speaking like a child now.

Minister Nimal Siripala:
No, you are also talking like a child. You imported engines, but they don’t work.

MP Welgama:
That was not successful. Those engines do not suit this country.

Minister Nimal Siripala:
Exactly.

MP Welgama:
Those were imported to be operated in the Central Hills. However the wheel base of that engine is long. Therefore, the tracks bend. You do not know about that.

Minister Nimal Siripala:
You are aware of all things, and we are not. However, you, who knows everything, could not pay the EPF and ETF. That is what I am saying. We accept that challenge. You did not do it when you were in office, and now we need to do it.

MP Welgama:

Then why did you accept it?

Minister Nimal Siripala:
Your problem is that I accepted this challenge. I am not ready to change my political journey based on what you say. You make your decisions, and I will make mine.

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