National People’s Power Parliamentarian Vijitha Herath has questioned why tax concessions granted for the construction of the West Container Terminal of the Colombo Port have not been granted for the construction of the East Container Terminal.
MP Herath speaking in Parliament yesterday said the West Terminal has been handed over to Adani Group in India, despite the government claiming it will not sell state resources after coming into power.
He added the government since coming into power began by selling the East Terminal.
The Parliamentarian said due to protests by employees the move was shelved.
However, he said the West Container Terminal has since been handed over to Adani Group on a 25-year lease with an unlimited number of tax concessions.
He claimed none of the concessions however have been granted to the East Container Terminal investment, which is being completed by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.
Meanwhile, State Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera commenting on the Galle Harbour said more than 100 ships dock at the Harbour daily.
The State Minister called for a firm to be established to ensure necessary facilities and services are provided when ships dock.
State Minister Jayasekera said a programme should be planned together with the Sri Lanka Port Authority, as it will add great value.
Meanwhile, Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Harshana Rajakaruna has requested the government to temporarily suspend the construction of expressways in the country for two years.
Speaking in parliament yesterday, he said it was not appropriate to prioritize the construction of expressways amid problems prevailing in Sri Lanka.
He reiterated that the government must decide on a plan for spending the remaining reserves carefully.
The parliamentarian commented that it was unfair to the people who have to stay in line to purchase fuel and are unable to buy medicine.
MP Rajakaruna requested officials to arrive at a firm decision to benefit the public.
