The Hon. Mahinda Jayasinghe - Deputy Minister of Labour

¶ 01 Presiding Member, many Members spoke on Hon. Chaminda Wijesiri’s motion regarding a proper methodology for appointing Labour Welfare Officers; we value these inputs and will focus on the issues raised.

¶ 02 It is no secret that historically, appointments to missions and welfare posts were made based on political preferences and kinship—friends, relatives, and children of politicians. The people elected the National People’s Power Government to change these practices. We have already recalled 35 officers from foreign service assignments; 32 have returned, and 27 more have been recalled, with 11 re-posted after assessment.

¶ 03 We acknowledge past failures in fulfilling welfare duties. Recruitment was ad hoc despite occasional Cabinet papers seeking regularization. We will address the concerns raised by Hon. Dayasiri Jayasekara and others—such as gaps in particular countries—and welcome Members to share specific cases (e.g., the matter in Oman mentioned this morning by Hon. Hector Appuhamy). We will coordinate with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism for swift interventions.

¶ 04 Recently, in Riyadh, at a global labour market forum, we engaged with “Takamol,” the Saudi institution overseeing labour matters, and discussed social security mechanisms for our workers. Going forward, recruitment will be via formal procedures: competency assessments, competitive examinations, structured interviews, and transparent criteria. Selected officers will receive comprehensive pre-departure training.

¶ 05 We are also appointing a committee to review past deficiencies in mission postings, examine cases, and recommend corrective actions swiftly. We will continue recalling and replacing unsuitable officers and ensure that all diplomatic and welfare appointments follow proper procedures.

¶ 06 We assumed office to change the old way, not to perpetuate it. We will rectify past opacity and move forward properly—serving an estimated 3.5 million Sri Lankans working worldwide and ensuring they receive the welfare and protection they deserve. Thank you.