By The Pulseline News Desk
The parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts (COPA) has renewed scrutiny of the Department of the Public Trustee, focusing on its management of state-administered assets, estates, and historic properties, during a recent parliamentary review.
The committee, chaired by Opposition MP Kabir Hashim, has examined the department’s performance alongside key audit findings spanning 2021 to 2024, with particular attention to accountability gaps highlighted in successive Auditor General’s reports.
A central issue raised during the session was the need for greater transparency in how assets come under the department’s control. Lawmakers had revisited an earlier recommendation requiring detailed disclosure on each asset handled by the department, including how and when it was received, the identity of the transferor, and the conditions attached to such transfers. Officials had informed the committee that the requested report had since been submitted, although members pressed for further clarity on the total number of trusts and estates currently under management.
Attention had also turned to land administration, particularly the leasing process involving a 113-acre estate in Suduwelipotha, Baddegama, belonging to the Harry Hapugoda estate in Galle District. Officials had told the committee that a tender had already been received above the assessed valuation of the property. However, the discussion had also revealed a more complex reality on the ground, with portions of the land reportedly being occupied without authorisation by various parties – raising questions about enforcement and oversight.
The committee had also examined the condition of Richmond Castle, one of the country’s notable heritage properties under state care. Officials had indicated that long-awaited renovation and restoration work is expected to begin by July. While the announcement signaled progress, MPs had also raised concerns about ongoing maintenance practices, noting that although the estate’s coconut harvest remains strong, overall upkeep appears inadequate.
The hearing reflected broader concerns within COPA about asset governance in public institutions – particularly the balance between revenue generation, preservation of historic properties, and protection against misuse or encroachment.
The COPA session was attended by Deputy Minister of Vocational Education Nalin Hewage and committee members including MPs Chanaka Madugoda, J.C. Alawathuwala, Oshani Umanga, Attorney-at-Law Sagarika Atawuda, T.K. Jayasundara, Chandana Suriyaarachchi, Ajanta Gammaddage, Lal Premanath, Ruwanthilaka Jayakody, and Sunil Rathnasiri.
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