Rs 57.5 b supplementary estimate to be re-submitted : Minister Kiriella

The supplementary estimate of Rs 57.54 billion to purchase a vehicle for Opposition Leader and the renovation of a minister's house will be re-submitted to Parliament, Minister Lakshman Kiriella said yesterday (Jun 18).

Minister Lakshman Kiriella, as the Leader of the House, had submitted the supplementary estimate before withdrawing it after objections were raised by Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) parliamentarian Bimal Ratnayake.

He had pointed out that the allocation of funds were to be used in order to purchase a vehicle for the Opposition Leader, the Lands Minister and for the renovation of the official residence of the Minister of Public Enterprise, Kandyan Heritage and Kandy Development - a portfolio held by Minister Kiriella.

MP Ratnayake had further questioned the manner in which the government is allocating funds although a program is yet to be set-up in order to assist the victims of the Easter Sunday attacks.

However, Mr Kiriella, had later stated that the supplementary estimate was for the official residence of former Minister Kabir Hashim and not for himself. He had proceeded to say that the supplementary estimate would be withdrawn until the errors are rectified.