National People’s Power (NPP) MP Sugath Wasantha de Silva, delivering his maiden speech in Parliament yesterday announced that the allowance for the disabled community would be increased from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000 through the next budget. Sugath Wasantha de Silva is the first visually impaired MP in its 76-year history of Sri Lanka’s Parliament.
He said that the NPP recognized the need for representation for this community to ensure their voices are heard in decision-making. “A person with a disability is a messenger who brings beauty to this world. Diversity arises from inclusivity”.“This is my maiden speech, and it is also a historic moment.For the first time in the history of the Sri Lankan Parliament, a person with a disability has taken a seat here. This is not a seat given randomly or by some divine force. It is the result of a group that worked tirelessly for this representation. I extend my gratitude to that group on behalf of the disabled community of over 1.7 million people.” he said.
“My presence here as a visually impaired person adds to the diversity of this assembly. The diversity of human society is enriched by our differences. Disability is not something we have chosen; it is a reality we live with.” he added.