The Samagi Jana Balawegaya has requested the government to grant a diesel concession for the fishing community.
Speaking to media today, MP Dilip Wedaarachchi said fisher folk are required to make massive sacrifices to secure funds and purchase fuel required for boat motors.
Parliamentarian Wedaarachchi explained that 7,250 boats in the country require 700,000 litres of fuel per day.
He called on the government to provide a 50% concession on fuel for the fishing industry since that is the price point where fishermen will be able to make a minimum wage.
He explained that people have taken loans by pawning their belongings in order to continue the fishing trade.
MP Dilip Wedaarachchi pointed out that leaders of Sri Lanka do not understand the plight of common folk who have to make large sacrifices to survive.
Wedaarachchi also informed media that a multi-day trawler needs to purchase fuel worth Rs. 2 million before departing on their journey.
Therefore he claimed that the fishing industry is in trouble due to the present economic crisis in the country.
He questioned why fuel prices in Sri Lanka have not reduced despite India reducing local fuel prices.
MP Wedaarachchi also pointed out that cost of goods such as dry ice and other material have also increased proportionally.
