The Yahapalana Government has allowed Rs. 63,807 million worth copper to be imported into the country during its rule, State Minister Ajith Nivard Cabraal yesterday revealed in Parliament.
State Minister Cabraal made this revelation in reply to a question Government MP Mohamed Muzammil asked during the oral questions round.
It was observed that during the Yahapalana regime, a copper factory owner who has direct links to Easter Sunday terror attacks, has been allowed to export copper as well.
MP Muzammil pointed out that copper should be recycled and used within the country, without exporting. However, while the Yahapalana government allowed the said factory owner to export copper, they have imported copper wasting millions of rupees, he added. State Minister Cabraal said that the present Government has taken a decision to stop copper imports while encouraging copper recycling.
He also said the Government is planning to extract copper from natural copper deposits in Seruwawila. Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Lakshman Kiriella requested the Government to cater to the needs of people who are involved in the traditional copperware industry, if it is completely stopping copper imports.
(Daily News)