An Investigation and Inspection Unit for the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau…
A special discussion between the officials of the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) and the Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development, Mr. Sunil Handunnetti, was held on the 28th at the GSMB premises in Pitakotte. The Bureau, which had previously operated under the Ministry of Environment, was brought under the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development from October 18.
Established in 1903 as the Ceylon Mineral Survey Department, the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau is responsible for mineral exploration, issuing mining licenses, managing exploration and lease rights, maintaining laboratory services, and providing geological information.
During the discussion, Minister Sunil Handunnetti stated that the current contribution of the mineral resources sector to Sri Lanka’s economy remains at a very low level. He emphasized that to maximize this contribution, a national policy on mineral resources should be developed, with clear guidelines and frameworks to direct related activities. The Minister further highlighted the importance of value addition to the country’s mineral resources.
He also mentioned that the government has already identified the barriers that have hindered the development of the mineral resources industry in the past and assured that measures will be taken promptly to remove those obstacles and properly position the mineral sector within the Sri Lankan economy.
Minister Handunnetti inspected the premises of the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, where officials briefed him on various ongoing issues — including staff-related matters, licensing problems, legal concerns, and transport difficulties. The Minister emphasized the urgent need to establish an Investigation and Inspection Unit within the Bureau to address these challenges effectively.
The event was also attended by Ministry Secretary Ms. Thilaka Jayasundara, GSMB Chairman Mr. Saman Jayasinghe, Director General and Geologist Ms. Deepani Weerakoon, several Additional Secretaries of the Ministry of Industries, and a number of senior officials and staff members of the Bureau.
