Two recent decisions from the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal of Sri Lanka mark significant milestones in environmental and public law. Both cases featured Millennium Chambers member Chrishmal Warnasuriya as counsel, whose submissions and professional conduct were expressly recognised by the courts.

The X-Press Pearl Maritime Disaster: Environmental Accountability

Following the X-Press Pearl disaster, a maritime incident described by the BBC as one of the worst environmental catastrophes in the region, the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka delivered a comprehensive 360-page judgment addressing liability and compensation.

Mr Warnasuriya represented one of the Petitioners in these proceedings before the Supreme Court, where the judgment recorded:

“This Court recalls the forceful submissions made by Mr Chrishmal Warnasuriya regarding the need to require the full amount of compensation… This Court agrees with that submission.”

The Bench, presided over by Her Ladyship the Chief Justice, also commended all counsel for their dignity and professionalism, describing their conduct as “a testament to the professionalism of the members of the Bar.”

This decision underscores the growing global emphasis on environmental accountability and the role of counsel in advancing principles of justice beyond national borders.

Administrative Oversight and English Legal Influence

In a separate matter before the Court of Appeal on 26 August 2025, the Court addressed key questions in public and administrative law, referencing Lord Denning LJ’s well-known judgment in Blackburn v Commissioner of Police. The decision reaffirmed the continuing relevance of English administrative jurisprudence in Commonwealth jurisdictions and the importance of judicial oversight in matters of public governance.

Reflecting Millennium’s International Scope

These rulings illustrate the diverse range of work undertaken by members of Millennium Chambers, extending beyond domestic criminal practice into international, environmental, and administrative spheres. They also highlight the universal nature of legal principles, justice, accountability, and ethical advocacy, which transcend jurisdictional boundaries.

For general information only, not legal advice.