He added that this was in addition to the increase in the Cost of Living allowance for government-sector workers given by the Rajapaksa regime.

He also said that there would be an additional salary increase of another Rs. 5,000 in June.

However, there was no increment on the salaries of private sector employees, Mr. Karunanayake said.

“If we force the companies to increase the salaries, the companies will have to close down. The Treasury does not have sufficient funds to finance a salary increase for private sector workers at this point.

“However, we are reflecting on this matter and we are bringing down the Cost of Living for all citizens significantly. We are trying to give the benefits to the people without a collapse in the economy,” he said.