Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody issues a stark warning to trade unions, urging them to support the government’s state-owned electricity restructuring plan or risk paving the way for full privatization by opposition forces.
Energy Minister Engineer Kumara Jayakody has declared that supporting the government’s electricity sector restructuring program represents a fundamental responsibility for workers and genuine trade unions. This position was articulated during a crucial discussion held on September 2nd between the minister and Ceylon Electricity Board trade union representatives addressing concerns regarding the electricity restructuring initiative.
The minister emphasized that the government’s program specifically aims to defeat previous administration privatization plans while confirming state ownership within the energy sector. Throughout the restructuring process, Minister Jayakody noted that CEB employee opinions, frustrations, and grievances have received consideration at every possible opportunity, expressing expectation for this collaborative approach to continue.
Following the legislation’s passage, multiple companies maintaining 100 percent government ownership have been established with prior notices provided to employees. The minister addressed terminology concerns, explaining that under the country’s Companies Act, all incorporated entities are legally designated as companies, though some actors deliberately misuse this terminology to create privatization fears. He emphasized the necessity of communicating factual situations directly to employees.
Trade union representatives participating in the discussion identified significant communication deficiencies throughout the program implementation. They noted that insufficient information dissemination has created operational obstacles and widespread confusion among employees, who increasingly direct questions toward their union representatives.
Minister Jayakody confirmed his readiness to address existing mechanism shortcomings, resolve legal complications, and manage excessive workloads compressed within limited timeframes. Regarding employee transfers, provident fund management, and pension fund administration, the minister referenced established committee structures resulting from previous union negotiations. He urged trade union cooperation in providing necessary information to workers and ensuring process success.
The minister further committed to communicating comprehensive details regarding employee company involvement opportunities and voluntary retirement options in accordance with legal provisions. He reiterated that supporting the government’s anti-privatization program constitutes essential work for both laborers and authentic trade unions, emphasizing collective responsibility for achieving success in this unprecedented complex process.
Lanka Electricity Employees Union Deputy Secretary Jayantha Gunaratne acknowledged his organization’s position as the electricity sector’s largest employee representative body while welcoming the restructuring program. He expressed appreciation for consistent consultation with trade unions and incorporation of their proposals throughout the process.
The event featured participation from Energy Ministry Secretary Professor Udayanga Hemapala, Electricity Sector Reforms Bureau Director General Electrical Engineer Pubudu Niroshan, and majority electricity trade union representatives.
