SL far ahead in the field of labour standards

Ramani Kangaraarachchi

Sri Lanka can boldly claim to be far ahead in the field of labour standards in relation to other developing countries in the world.

“The preamble of the framework clearly shows Sri Lanka’s consistent commitment to the principle of social justice, democracy and good governance although there are certain problems”, Senior Specialist “Employers Activities ILO in New Delhi (ACTEMP) Gotabaya Dasanayake said at the launching and signing ceremony of the National Framework on Social Dialogue at Hilton Colombo last week organized by the ILO Colombo to mark its 90th anniversary.

This is the first joint resolution of social parties to commit themselves to the principles of social dialogue to achieve identified goals and in particular the goals set out in the Decent Work Country Program.

“Sri Lanka has more efficient enterprises and possibilities for workers to enjoy a better work environment and as a whole, Sri Lanka is more productive. However, it is important to honour the commitment made in letters and spirit, given due recognition and regard to overall objectives identified in the framework and create institute mechanisms for effective dialogue at national, sectoral and enterprise levels which are challenges.

Director General Employers’ Federation of Ceylon Ravi Peiris said the signing of the National Framework for Social Dialogue takes place at a crucial juncture in the context of employer-employee relations and it is extremely important for the social partners to accept this reality and look at new work arrangements to be more efficient and productive.

This is the time that social dialogue is most needed to sustain and preserve employment of people, therefore, the realities in this process should not be ignored especially in the context of current global recession.

“It is essential to develop a time bound work plan to ensure the success of the frame work and the lead role of the Government is vital in this effort”, General Secretary Sri Lanka Nidahas Sevaka Sangamaya, Lesley Devendra said.

Presentations on the framework for Social Dialog were done by Senior Assistant Secretary Ministry of Labor relations and Manpower, Upali Athukorala and Senior Specialist Social Dialogue ILO New Delhi Marleen Rueda.

The Framework developed within the tripartite ILO, with the direct representation of governments, employers and workers covering conditions of work, occupational safety and health, social security, employment promotion and human resources development.

See also page xiv for more on ILO’s 90th anniversary