In recognition of their dedication during a challenging economic period, non-executive government employees who reported for duty on July 8 and 9, 2024, will be granted a special salary increment. This decision was approved by the Cabinet following a proposal by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, as announced by the President’s Media Division (PMD).
The Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has been directed to inform all Ministry Secretaries, Department Heads, and Provincial Chief Secretaries about the increment. Relevant circulars are to be issued promptly to facilitate this process.
Certain trade unions in non-executive services had organized sick leave and strikes on the specified dates. Despite the economic instability of previous years, the government managed to stabilize the situation through comprehensive economic reforms, which included a monthly allowance of Rs. 10,000 for all public servants.
Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardena emphasized the financial constraints faced by the government, stating that further salary or allowance increases would not be feasible without imposing additional tax burdens on the public. The government is committed to avoiding actions that could exacerbate the financial strain on citizens already facing economic challenges.
The government acknowledges the responsibility to recognize and assess non-executive officials who fulfilled their duties without resorting to disruptive measures during this critical period. The special salary increment is a token of appreciation for their dedication.
Instructions regarding the special increment will be issued in a circular to all Ministry Secretaries, Department Heads, and Provincial Chief Secretaries. These instructions will be issued in the presence of the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, as per the PMD.
Over 200 public sector trade unions affiliated with the State and Provincial Public Service Unions Collective launched a trade union action, reporting ‘sick leave’ on July 8 and 9, demanding an allowance of Rs. 25,000 for all public sector employees, similar to that given to executive officers.
This action led to significant disruptions in the operations of various institutions, including the Department of Registration of Persons and the Immigration Department. Postal workers also began a strike action on July 7, with their strike continuing until midnight on July 9. Additionally, teacher-principal trade unions reported ‘sick’ on July 9.
The special salary increment for non-executive government employees underscores the government’s appreciation of their dedication and hard work during difficult times. While financial constraints limit the government’s ability to provide further increases, this gesture aims to acknowledge the efforts of those who continued to serve without participating in the strikes. The government remains committed to maintaining stability and supporting its public servants within the available resources.
