The Hon. (Dr.) Anil Jayantha - Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, thank you for the opportunity.

¶ 02 We are debating an Order under the Shops and Office Employees (Regulation of Employment and Remuneration) Act. An Opposition Member earlier diverted attention elsewhere, but we must focus on what this Order does.

¶ 03 Previously, amendments allowed women to work at night in specified roles (reception, sanitation, etc.). As we stabilize the country and expand the economy—especially hospitality—there is a need to keep establishments open longer for food and beverage service. When economic activity grows, labour force participation must grow. Employers, employers’ associations and trade unions requested this; it was discussed at the National Labour Advisory Council. Therefore, this Order removes the legal barrier to employing women at night as food and beverage attendants. Recognizing social and cultural concerns about safety, we have included safeguards: after duty, either suitable resting accommodation must be provided or secure transport to their usual residence. That is the purpose of this amendment.

¶ 04 In our broader reform agenda, we are focusing on the labour sector—labour force and human capital. To build a better human resource, we must enhance labour productivity. Rather than rushing multiple labour bills together as done previously—leading to protests and union rejection—we obtained Cabinet approval to revise them properly for industrial peace and production relationships. A 17-member expert committee has met multiple times and will meet again on January 15. We intend to bring a consolidated bill covering four main areas and align domestic labour standards with international best practices to ensure safer, healthier workplaces, which is vital for productivity and to reduce healthcare and accident costs.

¶ 05 In 2021, the ILO introduced Convention C190 on eliminating violence and harassment in the world of work. Past governments did not ratify it; we have now secured Cabinet approval and deposited instruments. A special event was held yesterday with the ILO and international partners; our Deputy Minister participated. This is part of ensuring occupational safety and health.

¶ 06 We also aim to improve industrial relations. Production involves employers and employees, often represented by unions, historically in conflict. Through the NLAC we are already approving sectoral proposals, with employers cooperating. Before claiming rights and higher returns, we must together raise national productivity.

¶ 07 The objective of labour law reform is better, peaceful industrial relations. We will also empower trade unions to participate, present ideas, and in some cases be brought into management decision-making; the draft is nearly complete and will go to the NLAC on January 27, then to public consultation.

¶ 08 Sri Lanka’s 2025 data shows a population of 21.9 million; the labour force is only about 8 million, with 2.6 million women—around 34% participation, just 12.5% of total population. Women have special skills; we must create safe environments and opportunities, including in a “care economy” to ease household burdens and support childcare and eldercare. We are discussing measures to support pregnant employees and social protection to prevent discrimination. Society fears women’s night work due to risks of threats and violence; rather than merely punitive approaches, we aim to build a safer society. Today’s amendment is a first step to enable women to participate safely and productively. Thank you.

¶ 09 Question put, and agreed to.