Wimalaweera expresses support for MP salary increment

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Various views have been presented in the recent days by the members of Parliament on the issues surrounding salary anomalies. A minister revealed earlier this week that although he receives a salary of Rs. 65,000, he is taxed Rs. 67,500. When you do the math based on the Inland Revenue Department Formula, it is very easy to establish how much this particular individual gets paid every month. Addressing the Parliament on Thursday (Aug 9th), MP Wimalaweera Dissanayake also commented on his salary. He stated that there is massive opposition in Parliament when a legal request is made to increase the salaries of MPs. The representative of the Digamadulla stated that he receives a monthly fuel allowance of Rs 60,000 but noted that he spends roughly Rs. 150,000 just to attend parliament and engage in other public services. Wimalweera charged that the MPs who shout that they do not need a salary hike are the same people who have stolen money, who have inherited lands or those who own bars and hotels. As members of Parliament squabble over their salaries in Parliament, is it surprising that the state employees follow their example outside parliament and engage in trade union actions?