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- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri alleged that low-cost imported salt, like earlier white-onion stocks handled through Sathosa, was being channelled through private companies and resold to the public at much higher prices. He questioned why consumers were paying Rs. 350–400 when costs were far lower, and warned the Government not to repeat practices it had previously accused traders and past regimes of using. He also urged honest members in government to prevent such alleged profiteering and misconduct. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri SJB AI summary Chaminda Wijesiri criticized the Government’s handling of import controls, citing salt shortages as an example of administrative failure and arguing that officials had been prevented from planning for seasonal production disruptions. He accused the Government of relying on anti-corruption rhetoric and selective arrests instead of addressing economic management, and said imports and exports had declined. Referring to proposed salt imports from India, he stated that landed costs would allow salt to be supplied at about Rs. 130 per kilo, or around Rs. 200 with tax. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Dinesh Hemantha JJB AI summary Hon. Dinesh Hemantha defended the Government’s handling of the reported salt issue, arguing that climatic factors, consumer stockpiling, and media amplification had worsened a temporary market disruption already explained by the Minister of Industries. He said the Opposition was focusing on isolated commodity prices rather than macroeconomic indicators, citing remittances, reserves, exchange-rate stability, low inflation, growth, and public-sector salary increases as evidence of economic improvement. He also rejected claims that the Government disrespects war heroes, pointing to salary increases and honours granted to military personnel while criticizing the Opposition’s use of the issue for political purposes. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka SJB AI summary Hon. Gayantha Karunathilleka criticized the Government over a nationwide salt shortage, arguing that rising prices and limited availability are burdening households, farmers, tea growers, and especially fishermen who rely on salt for multi-day fishing. He contrasted the situation with past crises when salt remained available, questioned the Government’s capacity to deliver larger development projects, and cited the launch of “Rajya Lunu” as an unfulfilled assurance that Sri Lanka would not need salt imports. He also raised concern that the Government had failed to deliver its promised 33 per cent electricity tariff reduction and was instead preparing further increases affecting religious institutions, businesses, industries, schools, tourism, and vulnerable households. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna SJB AI summary Hon. Harshana Rajakaruna criticized the President’s handling of the War Heroes’ commemoration, alleging political motives and questioning government reluctance to use the term “war heroes” while emphasizing the need to honour those who died in the war. He accused the Government of making unfulfilled election and policy promises, citing rice, salt, and coconut imports despite earlier claims of self-sufficiency. He raised concern over the closure of the NEXT apparel factory in Katunayake and warned that uncertainty over US tariff discussions, particularly affecting apparel exports, could harm the sector. He urged the Government to provide truthful updates, intervene seriously to protect industry and employment, and implement a clear economic plan. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Dilith Jayaweera SB AI summary Dilith Jayaweera criticised the Government for allegedly engaging in traditional political bargaining to form local authorities despite its large mandate and promises to change political culture. He urged electoral reforms to prevent money-based competition and crossovers, and called for a more serious economic and governance approach rather than what he described as symbolic austerity. He also raised concerns about treatment of war veterans, the President’s messaging on national reconciliation, and investor confidence, citing the planned closure of a NEXT apparel factory in the Katunayake Free Trade Zone. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Rauff Hakeem, Attorney-at-Law SJB AI summary Rauff Hakeem criticized the Government’s handling of the presentation of Import and Export Control Regulations, arguing that such motions should be introduced by the responsible Minister, Deputy Minister, or Leader of the House to allow Opposition scrutiny and accountable answers. Referring to IMF and World Bank expectations on anti-corruption and governance, he questioned the recent importation of salt from India amid a domestic shortage, alleging that delays, licensing practices, and possible preferential treatment had enabled a “salt mafia.” He said Puttalam produces about half of Sri Lanka’s salt, yet shortages and price increases from around Rs. 130 to Rs. 350 per packet had burdened consumers, and called for investigation, early State monitoring, and timely policy action to prevent manipulation. Debate: Regulations under Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 and Disposal of Property Act Resolutions Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. (Mrs.) Hiruni Wijesinghe, Attorney-at-Law JJB AI summary Asked whether the Government is taking steps to expand hostel facilities for University of Colombo students, noting the loss of the Muttiah Girls’ Hostel and the limited accommodation available. She highlighted the higher accommodation costs faced by outstation students, including those from families of public servants, and asked whether existing or ongoing Government buildings could be used to provide a new hostel for the university. Oral Question: University Hostels and Student Allowances (Q.8/2025) Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. (Prof.) L.M. Abeywickrama JJB AI summary Hon. (Prof.) L.M. Abeywickrama raised concerns about the increase in stray dogs, attributing it to unregulated roaming and abandonment, particularly by low-income households unable to care for sick dogs or provide food. He cited studies indicating that about 70 percent of stray dogs originate from such households and proposed establishing a legal framework through local authorities to register new dogs, asking whether this could be implemented. Oral Question: Sand Mining Permits and Stray Dog Control (Q.7/2025) Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. (Mrs.) A.M.M.M. Rathwaththe JJB AI summary Hon. (Mrs.) A.M.M.M. Rathwaththe raised a supplementary question about the Nawamedagama community water project in Dehiattakandiya, which she said had supplied low-cost drinking water to about 2,500 families. She stated that a self-appointed committee of 35 persons had unilaterally handed the scheme over to the Water Board, causing hardship to residents, and asked whether action would be taken given alleged violations of Ministry of Water Supply Circular No. 12/01 of 21.03.2014 and a 25.02.2021 letter indicating that consumer requests could be accommodated. Oral Question: Takeover of Community Water Supply Centres by NWSDB (Q.6/2025) Read →
- 22 May 2025 The Hon. Danushka Ranganath JJB AI summary Hon. Danushka Ranganath asked whether the Government could support poor rural families in districts such as Kalutara, where farmers are shifting from rubber to tea due to quicker returns and climate conditions. He proposed identifying low-income families and assisting them, possibly through smallholder societies, to cultivate half-acre tea plots that could generate income within 18 to 24 months, and asked whether funds could be allocated in future budgets. Oral Question: Tea Smallholders in Kalutara District (Q.3/2025) Read →
- 21 May 2025 The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning AI summary Deputy Minister Harshana Suriyapperuma detailed Bank of Ceylon’s SME lending and support, stating that Rs. 37.629 billion had been granted from January 2025 to date, with 137,975 active SME loans outstanding at Rs. 147.685 billion as of 30 April 2025. He provided breakdowns by district, loan size, and borrower category, noting lending to women and youth entrepreneurs and outreach beyond the Western Province. He also outlined non-credit support initiatives, including district SME forums, advisory councils, village development programmes, and awareness programmes. In response to supplementary issues on debt restructuring and parate law relief, he said relief periods had been granted by loan category, Rs. 5.729 billion had been restructured so far, and remaining eligible borrowers were urged to approach banks for restructuring assessments. Procedural: Questions on Bank of Ceylon Relief and Allied Health Graduates - Final Business Read →
- 21 May 2025 The Hon. Imran Maharoof SJB AI summary Hon. Imran Maharoof argued that the Government is criticizing Opposition parties for post-election negotiations in local authorities while itself negotiating with former Rajapaksa-aligned and allegedly corrupt figures, a situation he attributed to flaws in the current local government electoral system. He said the Government ignored calls for electoral reform and must now accept responsibility for unstable council outcomes and govern with its parliamentary majority. He raised concerns over salt shortages and price increases affecting consumers and dried fish producers in areas such as Kinniya, Muttur, Pulmoddai, and Kuchchaveli, and asked whether any commissions were involved. He also demanded publication of the lists of politicians who received bar permits and allegedly misused government vehicles, and urged the Government to address local needs and fulfil its election promises. Debate: Finance Act Order and Notification on Luxury Tax on Motor Vehicles - Continued (Afternoon Session) Read →
- 21 May 2025 Hon. Hector Appuhamy SJB AI summary Hon. Hector Appuhamy criticized the Government’s conduct and outcome in the Local Government Election, arguing that the President and national leaders fronted the campaign and should accept responsibility for the loss of votes. He raised concerns over national security, organized crime, death threats to public figures, and the safety and dignity of MPs, while urging stronger action against the underworld and drug trafficking. He also questioned the Government’s handling of the cost of living, factory closures, and the promised arrangements for Sri Lankan driving licences to be recognized in Italy. He called on the President and Government to act as representatives of all Sri Lankans, honour war heroes, and implement a practical programme to rebuild the country. Debate: Finance Act Order and Notification on Luxury Tax on Motor Vehicles - Continued (Afternoon Session) Read →
- 21 May 2025 The Hon. J.C. Alawathuwala SJB AI summary Hon. J.C. Alawathuwala argued that the local government election results showed a significant decline in support for the Government and said council administrations should be formed according to the law. He accused the Government of failing to keep promises on electricity tariff reductions, questioned how it would meet 2028 debt obligations amid lower growth forecasts, and cited factory closures and reduced industrial activity as signs of economic stress. He urged the Government to engage investors, prevent job losses, ensure delivery of welfare benefits such as Samurdhi/Aswesuma and maternal food packs, and focus on rising living costs and public needs. Debate: Finance Act Order - Continued Discussion (Multiple Speakers) Read →
- 21 May 2025 The Hon. Sajith Premadasa - Leader of the Opposition SJB AI summary Hon. Sajith Premadasa raised concerns over the closure of the NEXT apparel factory and the loss of around 2,000 jobs, urging immediate government intervention to prevent further factory closures and provide relief to affected workers. He criticized proposed electricity tariff increases in light of earlier government promises, calling for targeted relief for low-use households while maintaining overall cost recovery under IMF commitments. He also called for stronger welfare measures for war veterans and Civil Security Department personnel, evidence for allegations linking SJB leaders to the underworld, and decisive action against rising violence. Citing sharp increases in food prices, salt supply planning failures, risks to GSP+ and trade access, and looming 2028 debt repayments, he urged stronger scenario planning, investor confidence, FDI, production growth, and support for IT exports. Debate: Finance Act Order - Continued Discussion (Multiple Speakers) Read →
- 21 May 2025 The Hon. Mujibur Rahman SJB AI summary Mujibur Rahman questioned the Government’s handling of continuing essential food shortages, focusing on the salt shortage and asking why salt imported through the State Trading Corporation had not reached consumers at affordable prices. He alleged that imported rock salt, despite relatively low landed costs and duties, was being sold at Rs. 350–400 per kilogram due to stock control by private interests linked to Puttalam Salt Ltd. and Raigam. He urged the Consumer Affairs Authority to inspect stocks in Hambantota and Puttalam rather than only small retailers, and criticized the appointment of a private salt company owner to the board of a public salt company as a conflict of interest. He also briefly raised concern that the Auditor General’s post remained vacant. Debate: Finance Act Order - Continued Discussion (Multiple Speakers) Read →
- 20 May 2025 The Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Suriyapperuma - Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning AI summary The Deputy Minister criticized the Opposition’s record on tax policy, vehicle imports and commercial borrowing, arguing that high debt-servicing costs are a consequence of past decisions and that the Government is seeking to increase revenue and reduce leakages. He said concerns raised about registered and unregistered vehicles and the 85 per cent rule arose from existing laws and regulations, not new Government action, and that amendments would be considered to strengthen revenue collection. He also stated that recovery of past CEB debts should be handled through a lawful mechanism that minimizes the burden on consumers, with the Public Utilities Commission independently determining the appropriate tariff-related approach. Debate: Order under the Excise (Special Provisions) Act - Electric Vehicle Tax Revision (Continued) Read →
- 20 May 2025 The Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva SJB AI summary Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva challenged the Government’s position on the IMF programme, arguing that if Ministers believe no country succeeds through the IMF, they should propose an alternative course rather than continue with it. He questioned the increase in EV taxes in light of earlier promises of cheaper vehicles and Japanese motorcycles, and raised concerns about vehicle importers allegedly manipulating deregistered vehicles as “brand-new” imports, noting that COPF has sought a report on potential revenue losses. He also criticised the proposed 18.3 percent electricity tariff increase, contrasting it with the Government’s promise of a 33 percent reduction, and argued that legacy losses from past underpricing and debt recovery are driving the tariff request. Debate: Order under the Excise (Special Provisions) Act - Electric Vehicle Tax Revision (Continued) Read →
- 20 May 2025 The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake NDF AI summary Hon. Ravi Karunanayake urged the Government to negotiate with the IMF based on Sri Lanka’s past engagements, rather than simply follow its directions, with a focus on incentivizing investment, improving revenue collection, and reducing interest rates. He warned that rising Treasury interest costs and flat revenue could create fiscal difficulties by September, particularly as capital expenditure continues. He called for more supportive treatment of businesses and SMEs, noting their large contribution to GDP, and proposed reducing taxes where possible and aligning investment incentives and qualifying payments with IMF targets. Debate: Order under the Excise (Special Provisions) Act - Electric Vehicle Tax Revision (Continued) Read →