The Hon. Kaveenthiran Kodeeswaran

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, thank you for the opportunity to speak in the debate on the Regulations under the Shops and Office Employees (Regulation of Employment and Remuneration) Act. Please do not waste my time. I began at 2.41 p.m.; I should receive my full five minutes. Please, no interruptions.

¶ 02 Women contribute greatly to the economy. They are 51.7% of the population and 34% of the labour force. We must protect them, protect their rights, ensure a basic salary, and ensure their safety. In that sense, today’s Regulations are commendable.

¶ 03 On education reform: while undertaking new reforms, the identity, arts, culture and traditions of Tamils must be preserved. This morning we met the Hon. Prime Minister on this. Under past administrations, Tamil history was erased and altered. Our next generation must learn our history; it must not be distorted.

¶ 04 Regarding local authorities’ employees: many local authorities are weakened—for example, in Ampara District: Alayadivembu, Thirukkovil, Karaithivu, Navithanveli, Irakkamam. Likewise in the North and other provinces. The Government now says local authorities must contribute 20% towards employees’ salaries from their revenue. How can those with no revenue do so? If you require it, you must first enable them to generate income through proper plans. Otherwise, these councils will fall further behind, unable to undertake any development.

¶ 05 For three-wheeler drivers, farmers, fishers and other workers, we must fix a proper basic wage and also establish a pension scheme. After 60 years of age they become vulnerable. I request that a pension scheme be set up for them.