Fishermen in Matara protest against high fuel costs

Colombo (News1st) - A group of fishermen are currently staging a protest blocking the Matara - Kataragama main road in the  Gurupokuna junction. The protest has been launched against the increase in Kerosene and Diesel prices. The protesting fishermen charge that they have been unable to engage in their livelihoods due to the Government's decision. Earlier last week the Government increased the price of Kerosene by Rs. 57 and Diesel by Rs. 14. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance and Mass Media says that the fuel subsidies that will be provided to those who use kerosene such as estate workers, Samurdhi beneficiaries and those without electricity, will begin on the 1st of June. According to the ministry, a total of 47,555 families are set to receive this subsidy. The ministry also notes that the 24,282 fishermen in the county who use outboard motors will also receive this subsidy from the 1st of next month. The fuel pricing formula was adopted by the Cabinet of ministers on the 10th of this month. According to the formula  prices of fuel are to be readjusted every two months.