The Hon. (Dr.) Anil Jayantha - Minister of Labour and Acting Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, we have held several discussions with trade unions and explained the situation. The issue arose because, during 2006, 2013 and 2015, ETF salaries were increased irregularly, contrary to the relevant circulars, creating disparities. Management Services Circular 01/2025 granted salary increases across all government institutions/boards/state-owned companies. Clause 3:3 requires verifying that conversions since 2006.01.01 were correctly done. The ETF Board has acted to correct salaries accordingly. Some unions protested in June 2025 and have filed CA/WRIT/709/2025; thus the matter is sub judice.

¶ 02 There has been no salary cut. Disparities created by prior unauthorised increments were removed by implementing 01/2025 correctly. For a number of employees who previously received increments without proper approval, when their salaries were regularised under 01/2025 the numerical increase is not visible due to reducing unauthorised allowances. However, all staff have been placed on the lawful scales and the 01/2025 increase has been paid from May 2025.