Topic
Cost of Living
1,181 speeches · 246 speakers
Party share
By the speaker's party · counts only, no scoring. "Unattributed" = speeches not resolved to an MP.
Most active on this topic
| # | Member | Speeches |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe, M.P. JJB | 83 |
| 2 | Hon. Sajith Premadasa, M.P. SJB | 78 |
| 3 | Hon. Ravi Karunanayake, M.P. NDF | 42 |
| 4 | Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara, Attorney at Law, M.P. SJB | 27 |
| 5 | Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka, M.P. SJB | 27 |
| 6 | Hon. (Dr.) Upali Pannilage, M.P. JJB | 24 |
| 7 | Hon. (Dr.) Anil Jayantha, M.P. JJB | 24 |
| 8 | Hon. S.M. Marikkar, M.P. SJB | 21 |
| 9 | Hon. Chamara Sampath Dasanayake, M.P. NDF | 20 |
| 10 | Hon. Mujibur Rahman, M.P. SJB | 18 |
Speeches
1,181 on this topic- 21 May 2026 The Hon. Amila Prasad SJB AI summary Hon. Amila Prasad warned of renewed economic stress, arguing that the Government’s focus on taxation burdens SMEs indirectly through vehicle import taxes, leasing charges, and rising fuel, water, and electricity costs, while waste and mismanagement persist. He questioned the Government’s response to the sharp depreciation of the rupee and asked for a clear plan to prevent a repeat of the 2022 crisis, including answers on how to restore the dollar rate. He also urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to take step-by-step measures to rebuild the economy and called, in the context of the war-end commemoration, for military modernization and proper benefits and honour for retiring personnel. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. Chaminda Lalith Kumara JJB AI summary He supported the Regulations under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, arguing that the Government is managing the economy responsibly amid global pressures while the Opposition is spreading falsehoods and ignoring context. He said the Government is prioritizing domestic production, youth investment, revenue growth, and reducing waste and corruption, citing Finance Ministry figures on higher revenue, primary and current account surpluses, and reduced debt. He also referred to recent war hero commemorations, the party’s anniversary, youth conferences, and tourism initiatives, calling for unity to advance economic recovery. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. S.M. Marikkar SJB AI summary Hon. S.M. Marikkar criticized the Government over alleged failures in power generation, stating that 17 vessels had failed to deliver expected outcomes and that costly spot tenders caused losses to the State. He warned that a 155,961 MWh generation shortfall would continue until September and argued that declining investor confidence, rising flour prices, and reduced imports reflected a repeat of the economic mismanagement seen in 2022. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. S.M. Marikkar SJB AI summary Hon. S.M. Marikkar raised concerns over the rupee’s sharp depreciation, arguing that the dollar’s rise from Rs. 344 to Rs. 354 increased the rupee value of debt and was already affecting consumer prices, including milk powder. He alleged that all 17 coal shipments supplied to Lakvijaya Power Plant failed calorific value specifications, citing plant and PUCSL reports which he tabled, and said the resulting generation shortfall had to be covered by furnace oil and diesel at high cost. He claimed losses exceeded Rs. 30 billion and called on the Government to accept responsibility, while also questioning confidence in IMF funding and the adequacy of foreign investment inflows. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. Dinesh Hemantha JJB AI summary Dinesh Hemantha defended the Government’s economic approach during debate on regulations under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, arguing that it has chosen difficult policy decisions aimed at long-term stability rather than short-term measures. He said the Government maintained the 2026 Budget despite calls to revise it after the “Divva” cyclone, while separately implementing relief payments for cleaning, household goods, school books, rent, and housing. He stated that house construction for eligible disaster-affected families has begun across affected Divisional Secretariat areas, including unresolved cases from earlier disasters, and noted that land identification is underway in all 11 DS divisions of Matale, including lands requiring Forest Conservation Department approval. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. (Prof.) L.M. Abeywickrama JJB AI summary Prof. L.M. Abeywickrama supported regulations under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, arguing that import controls and temporary rice imports were needed to stabilize food supply and prices while moving toward a production-based, self-reliant economy. He said limited imports of Ponni Samba similar to Keeri Samba were permitted under licence to address shortages, while the Government had increased support for paddy farmers, moderated price volatility, and reduced retail prices of some rice and food items. He also cited measures in Matara District to restore uncultivated land affected by salinity in the Nilwala River area, including canal clearing, salinity barriers, and Rs. 1,200 million in compensation to farmers. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana NDF AI summary Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana raised concern over the rapid depreciation of the Sri Lankan rupee and its impact on fuel, bus fares, and essential commodity prices, arguing that any claimed Treasury surplus should be used to ease living costs. He questioned the Government’s cost-of-living estimates, saying Rs. 16,690 per month was unrealistic, and cited reported financial and cybersecurity-related losses at People’s Bank, the Treasury, and SriLankan Airlines as operational failures requiring attention. He also argued that the Government’s rhetoric was insufficient in the face of economic hardship and called for Provincial Council elections to test public support. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa urged the Government to begin immediate negotiations for a successor IMF programme to take effect after the current Extended Fund Facility ends in March 2027, citing reserve shortfalls, rupee depreciation, rising fuel prices, weaker tourism earnings, and future debt service pressures from 2028. He argued that Sri Lanka’s usable reserves are well below the IMF target and that risks from oil prices, remittance dependence, and balance of payments pressures require extended timelines, stronger buffers, and a social safety net. He also referred to recent financial fraud incidents and mixed official signals as factors affecting investor confidence, and called for a comprehensive stakeholder review. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. Mujibur Rahuman SJB AI summary Mujibur Rahuman challenged the Government’s claim that there was no economic crisis, citing a widening gap between official and street dollar rates, bank rate volatility, dollar shortages, and rising import and essential-goods prices including milk powder. He alleged that vehicle importers with advance knowledge benefited from the 16 May levy regulation through large numbers of LCs opened just before its imposition, and called for equal application of rules to all importers. He also disputed the Government’s cost-of-living figures, arguing they reflect an extreme poverty food line rather than actual household needs, and sought clarity on promised diaspora dollar inflows and related allegations. He urged the Government to acknowledge worsening conditions and take decisive action to address exchange-rate pressure and rising living costs. Main Business: Debate on Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act and Appropriation Act Resolutions Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF AI summary Ravi Karunanayake sought clarification on whether, from June, BESS pricing would be determined by the Public Utilities Commission rather than the CEB. He raised concerns that renewable energy curtailments, particularly regular weekend curtailments since February 2025, were undermining bankability. He also questioned whether IMF cost-reflective pricing conditions tied to an expected US$350 million tranche would lead to further electricity tariff increases, citing rupee depreciation and urging protection of consumers. Standing Order 27(2) Question: Renewable Energy Outstanding Payments Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. (Dr.) Upali Pannilage - Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment JJB AI summary Minister Upali Pannilage said rural poverty eradication remains a government priority and noted that the 2025 Rural Development Bureau, initially funded with Rs. 1 billion, has been expanded into the “Praja Shakthi” National Movement. He stated that the programme aims to avoid weaknesses of earlier initiatives while adopting their strengths, using a participatory approach to reduce dependency and empower rural communities. He also said Rs. 25,000 million has been allocated for rural development this year, with implementation to be coordinated across ministries, Provincial Councils and local authorities. Oral Question Q.1770/2025: Rural Development Bureau Projects in Batticaloa District Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri JJB AI summary Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri asked how Community Development Councils will address persistent rural poverty despite successive programmes such as Janasaviya, Samurdhi, Divi Neguma, and Aswesuma. He questioned whether the new approach would avoid the shortcomings of earlier poverty alleviation schemes, while noting the selection of a highly impoverished GN Division. Oral Question Q.1770/2025: Rural Development Bureau Projects in Batticaloa District Read →
- 21 May 2026 The Hon. (Dr.) Upali Pannilage - Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment JJB AI summary The Minister explained that Muruththanai GN Division in Koralaipattu South, Batticaloa, was selected under the 2025 programme to uplift difficult villages following a recommendation by the District Secretary. He cited data showing high multidimensional poverty, repeated war displacement, low incomes, many temporary houses, female-headed households and persons with disabilities, and no residents employed in government, semi-government or formal private sector jobs. He stated that these socio-economic conditions formed the basis for the Ministry’s development interventions in the village. Oral Question Q.1770/2025: Rural Development Bureau Projects in Batticaloa District Read →
- 20 May 2026 The Hon. (Dr.) Anil Jayantha - Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning JJB AI summary Minister Anil Jayantha reviewed 2025 economic performance, citing 5 percent growth, per capita GDP above USD 5,000, lower lending rates, stronger exports, tourism and remittances, and a record current account surplus of USD 1.73 billion. He said fiscal management reduced the budget deficit, increased public wages and capital expenditure, supported private sector credit growth, and enabled a Rs. 500 billion response to the Ditva cyclone amid global shocks. Responding to Opposition claims, he rejected assertions of a Rs. 5 trillion debt increase, citing official debt figures showing total debt rising from Rs. 29.8 trillion at end-2024 to Rs. 31 trillion at end-2025 and falling to Rs. 30.82 trillion by April 2026, with external debt also declining by April 2026. Adjournment Debate: Central Bank Annual Economic Review 2025 Read →
- 20 May 2026 The Hon. Wasantha Pushpa Kumara JJB AI summary The Hon. Wasantha Pushpa Kumara supported the CBSL Annual Economic Review 2025, arguing that it reflected economic recovery under stable and transparent policy management rather than a political narrative. He cited sustained GDP growth of about 5 per cent, improved inflation management toward the 5 per cent target, stable food and energy prices despite external pressures, and lower interest rates that expanded private sector credit. He also noted the relaxation of vehicle import restrictions as part of efforts to revive commerce and market activity. Adjournment Debate: Central Bank Annual Economic Review 2025 Read →
- 20 May 2026 The Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri JJB AI summary Hon. Sunil Rathnasiri defended the Government’s response to the Middle East war-related crisis, citing a Rs. 100 billion relief package and increases to Aswesuma, fertilizer subsidies, and fuel and vessel support for fishers. He rejected opposition claims regarding unpaid allowances, lack of cyclone assistance, and non-payment of fertilizer subsidies in Polonnaruwa, providing figures on payments and fertilizer distribution. He argued that the Government inherited a bankrupt and halted economy in 2024, but has since improved economic conditions and public confidence, while criticizing the opposition’s conduct and asserting the Government’s commitment to village-level development. Adjournment Debate: Central Bank Annual Economic Review 2025 Read →
- 20 May 2026 The Hon. Ajith Agalakada JJB AI summary Hon. Ajith Agalakada said the Central Bank report for the first full year after the Government assumed office showed significant improvements in revenue, fiscal deficit, primary balance, per capita income, remittances, tourism, and growth following an inherited economic crisis. He argued that the Government reduced the deficit from 6.8 to 2.3 per cent of GDP, exceeded the IMF primary balance target, and increased state revenue to 16.7 per cent of GDP through disciplined, collective, and data-based governance. He contrasted these results with past economic mismanagement and said allocations were now made fairly across districts based on need rather than political influence. Adjournment Debate: Central Bank Annual Economic Review 2025 Read →
- 20 May 2026 The Hon. Naina Thambi Marrikkar Mohamed Thahir AI summary Hon. Naina Thambi Marrikkar Mohamed Thahir argued that official economic figures should be tested against living costs faced by people, citing increases in fertilizer, milk powder, fuel, and the dollar rate, and questioned whether vehicle import LCs had contributed to exchange-rate pressure. He urged the Government and Opposition to move beyond blame over past administrations and work collectively to rebuild the economy. Representing Puttalam, he called for urgent action on severe flooding, including proper canals and drainage, noting damage to salt pans, prawn farms, public buildings, and livelihoods, and asked the Government to provide immediate relief and long-term flood-management solutions. Adjournment Debate: Central Bank Annual Economic Review 2025 Read →
- 20 May 2026 The Hon. Chanaka Madugoda SLPP AI summary Hon. Chanaka Madugoda argued that current economic improvements are not sufficiently visible at village level and credited growth and infrastructure foundations to the Mahinda Rajapaksa administration, citing per capita income, GDP, growth rates, and projects such as expressways, ports, Norochcholai, Port City and Uma Oya. He said the opposition would support genuine economic strengthening, but raised concern over Victory Day commemorations in the North, alleging separatist symbols and rhetoric and urging government action against such activities. He also requested that Lanka Mineral Sands Ltd. workers who had served unpaid be absorbed into the approved 102 vacancies, rather than being displaced through open recruitment, citing a prior ministerial assurance. Adjournment Debate: Central Bank Annual Economic Review 2025 Read →
- 20 May 2026 The Hon. Sunil Biyanwila JJB AI summary Hon. Sunil Biyanwila defended the government’s handling of the 2025 economy during the debate on the Central Bank’s Annual Economic Review, rejecting Opposition claims of economic collapse and instability in the exchange rate. He cited public sector salary increases, estate worker wage increases, grassroots programmes such as Praja Shakthi, and May Day participation as evidence of public support and policy delivery. He outlined plans to strengthen village economies, agriculture, dairy production, and livestock, including raising daily milk output from about 1 million to 3 million litres and bringing fallow fields back into cultivation. He also emphasized national reconciliation among Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities as part of economic recovery. Adjournment Debate: Central Bank Annual Economic Review 2025 Read →