The cost of living is the primary concern for the people, says Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran.
During her reply to the 2024-2025 budget debate in Parliament on Monday, she acknowledged the struggles faced by the population.
“We engage with the people, we read opinion polls and letters to the editor,” Ms. Kiran stated.
“We know people are struggling and find it difficult to understand the necessity of increasing VAT.
“However, without the VAT increase, we wouldn’t be able to fund increased welfare allowances, improve healthcare, or reduce the government debt that hinders the essential social spending we need.”
Ms. Kiran indicated that the government’s control over the cost of living is limited to price regulation.
“As the Minister for Finance has mentioned, our focus must be on raising incomes.
“I welcome the increase in the minimum wage and the long-overdue raises for civil servants.
“The Prime Minister has previously discussed various social protection mechanisms.
“While the minister will go into detail on the budget’s overall impact and the ministry’s plans for the new financial year, I want to highlight efforts made for people living with disabilities, the elderly, and street dwellers.
“Once again, I emphasize trust in this government. These actions are not for votes but because they are the right things to do.”