By Ashwin Hemmathagama
Our Lobby Correspondent
Preventing the use of atomic energy to create nuclear bombs and channelling the technical knowhow and possible resources for the betterment of country, especially in power generation, the Ministry of Technology and Research brought new regulations yesterday, tabling the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Bill.
The Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Bill will establish two institutions – the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board for the promotion and encouragement of the use of nuclear science and technology for national development purposes, while the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Regulatory Council will look after the regulation of practices involving ionising radiation and the safety and security of sources.
The new Bill will repeal the Atomic Energy Authority Act No.19 of 1969 and reassign the remaining staff to the new institutions.
Moving the Bill, Minister of Technology and Research Patali Champika Ranawaka said: “It has become necessary to permit the beneficial and peaceful application of nuclear science and technology in health, industry, environment, and agriculture, for national development within Sri Lanka. However, it has become necessary to provide for adequate protection of individuals, society and the environment now and in the future, against the potentially harmful effects of ionising radiation and for the safety and security of radiation sources by establishment and maintenance of a regular control system.”
Joining the debate from the Opposition, UNP MP Gamini Jayawickrama Perera extended full support to pass the Bill and commended Minister Ranawaka for his efforts during the recent past.
“We give you the fullest support on this Bill. Sometime ago I was used to criticise you. But having realised your nature and the abilities I gave up the criticising. I know you have tried to restructure the CEB, but for some unknown reasons you failed to continue. I know that you have a vision and a long-term plan. We are sure that you will develop the atomic energy sector,” said MP Perera.
