Newspaper reports on Parliament canteen draws ire of some MPs

By Saman Indrajith

SLPP national list MP Jayantha Ketagoda yesterday said that newspapers had damaged the reputation of the MPs by claiming that they had found fault with the parliament canteen staff for a shortage of milk- based food items. He requested the Speaker to summon the editors concerned and reprimand them.

Raising a privilege issue, MP Ketagoda said that publishing such news was part of a conspiracy to tarnish the reputation of MPs and denigrate Parliament. “When such news items are published public opinion turns against all of us. A special investigation should be held. The editors of newspapers that published such stories should be summoned and the Speaker should talk to them. This news has gone viral on social media. I made inquiries and could not find any evidence to prove this allegation. I spoke to officials and they told me that there was no complaint by anyone.

The news reports have also claimed that MILCO has failed to supply enough liquid milk to the parliament canteen. Renuka Perera was recently appointed the Chairman of MILCO. The newspaper have placed the blame on him. We must take stern action against this,” MP Ketagoda said.

Kurunegala District SJB MP Nalin Bandara said that he too had seen the news item and requested the Speaker to conduct an investigation.

Badulla District SJB MP Chaminda Wijesiri: “People know the cost of maintaining this parliament. Those people in rural areas as well as in cities are languishing in queues now are questioning the luxurious and comfy living style of MPs and the way we spend their monies here. There is a gas shortage in the country, but there is no gas shortage in parliament. Parliament has enough gas to cook food for 225 MPs, but there is no gas in the market for people to buy. There is a huge pressure because of people’s suffering. We must try to find solutions to these problems.”

MP Ketagoda: What is he talking about? He tries to have his face shown on TV. What I raised is an issue concerning all of us. These news reports are false. We do not come here for eating. We could shut down the canteen and bring food from home if the speaker permits such action.

The Speaker: I am saddened by this news item. This is an abuse of freedom of speech. I will call a report on this and will take action on the basis of that report.