Trade unions say the government must take prompt steps to provide fuel concessions to the public as the price of a barrel of crude oil in the world market has reduced significantly.
Speaking to NewsRadio, trade unionist Ananda Palitha said the recent increase in domestic fuel prices was unjust.
Palitha said the fuel price hike was the highest in history adding the revised prices are higher than the current world market rates.
He added the oil prices in the world market decreased by 14 percent yesterday.
The trade unionist claimed the government increased fuel prices while expecting fuel shipments ordered at a reduced rate.
Palitha said the government has a responsibility to reduce fuel prices promptly while the public is burdened due to the shortage of gas and other essential commodities.
Ananda Palitha further said it is apt for the Head of State to issue directives to reduce fuel prices prior to addressing the nation tonight, adding it is the President’s responsibility.
He said the government claims to be in possession of adequate stocks of fuel while also claiming that fuel shipments are being unloaded at the port.
Palitha claimed however the public has not received any relief and is being forced to remain in queues to purchase essential items.
He added factories are unable to use generators due to the lack of diesel.
The trade unionist reiterated that the public must benefit from oil prices reducing in the world market.
