Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena stated that it is a matter of regret that the media is involved in attempts by certain elements to tarnish the image of Parliament in the eyes of the public.
He said that when an investigation is being conducted regarding the alleged sexual harassment against the female employees in the Housekeeping Department of Parliament, various false news are being created in this regard and the publication of them by the media without verifying their veracity may hinder investigations.
The Speaker said that there were two cushions removed from the sofas along with some equipment used for cleaning found in a room near the committee room where the Public Enterprises and Public Accounts Committee meetings are held. He also said that the reputation of Parliament will be damaged by the publication of such false information in the media.
The Speaker said that he has instructed to conduct impartial investigations into sexual allegations and that a committee is appointed in this regard. He said that an investigation will be conducted to find out those who create such false news and distribute it through the media.
Secretary General Kushani Rohanadeera said that the media reports being circulated that two pillows and a mattress were found in a Parliamentary Committee room are false.
The Secretary General stated that a Committee of three senior officials has been appointed to conduct a preliminary investigation into the reports published in media on July 30, 2023 regarding the Housekeeping Department of Parliament and an investigation is already underway.
At present, an officer who has been accused of the aforesaid issue has been interdicted, and the Parliamentary staff have been given the opportunity to meet the relevant committee members personally or to inform them about the related matters through telephone or e-mail.
She also said that an internal circular has been issued giving opportunity to employees to submit their information to the Secretary General and Assistant Secretary General of Parliament in addition to the relevant committee members.