The maximum retail price (MRP) of a bag of cement has increased by more than Rs. 300, according to the National Construction Workers’ Union.
Addressing a press briefing, the union’s Secretary Supun Abeysekara, stressed that the construction industry is negatively impacted by the increase in cement prices at a time when it was starting to undergo development.
Citing the 18% VAT increase starting January 1, Mr. Abeysekara said it is unjust that cement prices have increased by Rs. 320 per bag once more.
He further noted that manufacturers have imposed a tax of over three percent on cement, despite the proposed 3% VAT.
Cement manufacturers announced a price increase of Rs. 150-Rs 350 for a 50-kg bag of cement yesterday (5).
Cement is therefore priced between Rs. 2,300 to Rs. 2400 per bag.
Meanwhile, other building material prices will also experience a rise in line with the VAT, Mr. Abeysekara added.
The Government today tabled in the House the Report of the Commission to Inquiry into the Establishment and Maintenance of Unlawful Places of Detention and Torture Chambers in the Batalanda Housing Scheme.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe said today he wholly rejects the Batalanda Commission report and that it was appointed wholly with the intention slinging political mud at him.
Leader of the National People’s Party (NPP) and one time Propaganda Secretary of the JVP Wimal Weerawansa accused the Government of bringing back the “Batalanda Commission” for a media spectacle instead of a genuine concern for those who suffered during the 1988-1990 period.
Speaker (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne to announced to the Parliament regarding the vacant seat created in Parliament due to the resignation of Mohamed Sali Naleem from his position as a Member of Parliament.
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