The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, I have already answered. We are proceeding exactly as stated in our policy. Unlike previous governments, we will not make arbitrary appointments without criteria. We are following due process consistent with the Public Service Commission’s decisions and policies—identifying actual vacancies, holding open competitive examinations, and interviews as applicable. We have already commenced this process and have given close to 10,000 appointments. A committee under the Secretary to the Prime Minister is identifying vacancies and facilitating recruitment.

¶ 02 I must also emphasize that Members—government or opposition—must share accurate information. Specifically regarding teacher recruitment, the obstacle is a pending Supreme Court case. There are 20,000–25,000 vacancies in the education sector; once the Attorney-General presents our Cabinet decision to Court (next hearing expected in early April) and if the Court permits, we will proceed immediately under the proper schemes. We are not neglecting any of our policy commitments; claims to the contrary are incorrect, Hon. Speaker.