2026-02-05 / Second Reading Debate: Institute of Real Estate Professionals Bill, Container Depot Operators Licensing Bill, and Licensing of Shipping Agents Amendment Bill - Member Contributions
Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law
2026-02-05
Ms. Lakmali Hemachandra addressed the "Container 323" matter that had been raised in the House, noting that Parliament has already appointed a Special Select Committee to investigate Opposition allegations related to the issue. She pointed out that the preceding speaker, Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, is himself a member of that Committee and had requested its establishment, arguing that he is therefore obligated to conduct his scrutiny through the Committee process rather than making allegations on the floor of the House.
Thank you for the time, Mr. Speaker.
Since the “Container 323” matter has been raised in this House, let me first state this: there is a Special Select Committee appointed by Parliament to investigate the Opposition’s allegation on “Container 323”. Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, who just spoke, is a member of that Committee. Since he himself requested the Committee, his duty is to participate and perform that work in Committee, not come here and cast aspersions. He is bound by the decisions of that Committee.