– Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe has said the proposed labour law reforms are aimed at strengthening workers’ rights rather than weakening existing protections.He said the Government intended to establish a progressive labour law framework suited to the country’s needs and aligned with modern workplace requirements and international labour standards.

Addressing a consultation session on proposed labour law amendments for the Western Province at the Department of Labour auditorium at Mehewara Piyasa, Narahenpita, yesterday (28), Jayasinghe said the reform process was being conducted transparently with the participation of all stakeholders.He said an independent 17-member committee appointed to oversee the process had held nearly 40 meetings for extensive discussions, adding that there had been no interference with its independence.The same draft legislation had been provided to all parties, including trade unions and employers, he said.Jayasinghe said the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC) had been convened more than 11 times since the present Government assumed office, while completed sections of the proposed legislation had been presented to the council on August 7.Although the draft contained several provisions more progressive than existing laws, the Government was prepared to discuss areas requiring further amendments, he said.

Rejecting claims that the reforms were being expedited to meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) requirements, Jayasinghe said the Government was under no obligation to accelerate the process on that basis.He requested trade unions to submit any additional proposals or observations on the draft legislation in writing before November 30.The consultation was part of a series of provincial-level meetings aimed at obtaining views from the public, trade unions, employers and other stakeholders.