The government has initiated steps to grant permanent appointments to around 10,000 non-permanent employees in government departments and corporations, Transport and Highways Minister Bimal Ratnayake informed Parliament yesterday (11).
Responding to a question raised by Illankai Tamil Arasu Katchchi (ITAK) MP Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam, the Minister said the move aims to formalize the status of temporary and non-permanent employees across various levels of public service.
While highlighting the appointments, Ratnayake noted that the recent Budget includes a salary increase for railway crossing guards, raising allowances from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 15,000. He cautioned, however, that the unsafe conditions at railway crossings cannot be fully addressed by the increment alone, stressing the need for a long-term safety plan.
Regarding educational qualifications, the Minister said that appointees, including 700 employees at the Road Development Authority (RDA) and railway crossing guards, are required to have sat for the GCE Ordinary Level Examination. He added that passing the examination is not a strict requirement for recruitment, a point that has raised concerns over competency standards in critical government roles.
“In general, steps have been taken to make about 10,000 non-permanent employees permanent, especially in the government sector and government corporations,” Ratnayake said, noting that some positions may still require further review based on qualifications.
Sri Lanka has a bloated public sector with one state sector employee for every 16 citizens due to heavy politicization and political interference in provision of employment.
It has long been criticized for its inefficiency and excessive size, contributing to fiscal imbalances and economic challenges.
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