December 14, Colombo (LNW): The Treasury has already released in excess of Rs. 13 billion to support communities affected by the ongoing disaster situation, according to the Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Dr Harshana Suriyapperuma.
In a special statement, Dr Suriyapperuma said efforts are under way to improve transparency and speed in sharing information on incoming funds and their allocation. He stressed that strengthening communication around the scale and timing of financial assistance remains a key priority.
He explained that all monetary assistance currently received by the country is being channelled through the Treasury, which then distributes the funds using established institutional mechanisms. These include close coordination with Divisional Secretariats to ensure assistance reaches affected areas efficiently.
The Finance Secretary confirmed that total disbursements have now exceeded Rs. 13 billion, with funds released following presidential proposals that were subsequently endorsed by Parliament through supplementary budget approvals.
He added that steps are being taken to accelerate data collection and information-sharing processes so that both material aid and financial contributions received by Sri Lanka can be delivered to individuals and communities without delay. The overall focus, he noted, is on ensuring timely, accountable and effective relief for those most in need.
