MPs call for PSC to probe New Diamond and X-Press Pearl disasters

A group of MPs have written to the Speaker requesting him to appoint a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to investigate the "New Diamond" and "X-Press Pearl" disasters. 

The 21 MPs have noted in their letter to the Speaker that these two disasters have created widespread damage to Sri Lanka's marine environment and marine life. The impact of these disasters will be felt for years to come, they further point out. 

Meanwhile, several MPs have made revelations both within Parliament and outside detailing alleged deals done in relation to these disasters and have also mentioned names of several individuals who were allegedly invovled, the letters adds. These revelations received widespread publicity in the media, they further note. 

In order to ascertain the truth of these revelations, the MPs have called on the Speaker to appoint a PSC comprising 15 MPs which includes representatives from both the government and opposition, to investigate these two maritime disasters.