For the first time since August 2023, the National Labor Consultative Council convened on the evening of January 15 at the Labor Secretariat Auditorium in Narahenpita. The meeting was chaired by Labor Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando and Deputy Minister Mahinda Jayasinghe. This urgent meeting was called following the new government’s acceptance that labor-related issues should be resolved through a tripartite agreement involving the employer, employee, and the government.
Notably, three representatives from women’s trade unions participated in this council meeting for the first time, ensuring adequate representation for women in the National Labor Consultative Council. This milestone marks a progressive step towards inclusive decision-making in labor policies.
During the meeting, trade unions criticized the government for continuing the drafting of the Employment Act, initiated by the previous administration, without proper consultation with the unions. In response, the Labor Minister emphasized that the draft would be reviewed to align with the new government’s policies and vision. Necessary amendments would be incorporated, and the revised draft would be submitted for the approval of both employer and employee representatives.
A significant decision was made to extend the five-day work week for the export sector by another six months, starting from January 1, 2025. This extension is subject to the instructions and approval of the Commissioner General of Labor. To address potential issues arising from the implementation of the five-day work week, the council decided to appoint a sub-committee comprising six representatives—two each from the employer, employee, and government groups.
The meeting was attended by S.M. Piyatissa, Secretary to the Ministry of Labor, Ashoka Jayasundara, Commissioner General of Labor, and representatives from both employer and employee groups, alongside members of the National Labor Consultative Council. The discussions highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring fair and inclusive resolutions to labor issues while fostering collaboration among all stakeholders.
