• Environment Min. seeks public info, to consider institutional audits 

The Environment Ministry has urged the public to come forward with any information regarding past irregularities or acts of corruption within institutions such as the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) and the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB).

The ministry stated that all credible complaints would be investigated, and that firm action would be taken against those found responsible.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, Deputy Environment Minister Anton Jayakody said that under the current administration, there is no political interference in institutions such as the CEA and the GSMB. 

“As of now, no mining permits or other permits have been issued to any politician or their family members. The political authority does not interfere in such matters at all. This Government is not working in such a manner,” he said.

However, he claimed that such practices were common under previous governments, where political influence often extended into the work of regulatory institutions. 

“If there have been any incidents of irregularities or corruption within these institutions in the past, and if anyone can provide us with information about such, we will definitely take action following a proper investigation. We will also consider commencing an audit.”

The CEA and the GSMB are among the main regulatory bodies responsible for conducting environmental assessments, issuing mining and related permits, and overseeing projects connected to environmental protection and natural resource management. Over the years, these agencies have faced allegations of irregularities and political interference, particularly in relation to the approval of mining and development permits.