- Govt will stand for estate workers’ rights
- 60,000 youth for foreign jobs this year
- Japan SSW Visa, a golden opportunity
The Government on May Day announced a significant daily wage hike for plantation workers, embroiling the sector in controversy. Tensions have escalated as plantation companies reportedly refuse to comply with the new wage structure, with President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the Government firmly on the side of the workers.
Amidst this backdrop, the Sunday Observer interviewed Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara to find out more about the issue. He also focused on issues concerning migrant workers.
Excerpts from the interview:
Q: What are the new measures in place to protect migrant workers?
A: Ensuring the safety and well-being of migrant workers is paramount, and we have implemented several key initiatives to achieve this goal.
To begin with, we are conducting extensive awareness programs under the “Jayagamu Sri Lanka Program” to educate individuals about safe migration practices and the risks associated with human trafficking. It is crucial to disseminate this information widely to prevent exploitation.
Additionally, we have established dedicated “migrant societies” in every Grama Niladhari (GN) division. These societies serve as platforms to raise awareness among potential migrants and promote safe migration practices within communities.
Recognising the importance of prompt response, we have digitalised the process for handling complaints and difficulties faced by migrant workers. This digital platform allows migrant workers to report issues directly and efficiently, ensuring swift action and support.
These measures collectively aim to protect migrant workers and facilitate safer migration experiences, stressing the importance of awareness and proactive support for those seeking employment abroad.
Q: What are enhanced actions against rogue job agents announced recently?
A: Stricter measures have been implemented against unauthorised job agents operating in the migrant worker recruitment sector. Foreign agencies must obtain a valid licence from the relevant authorities to legally function and recruit migrant workers. Any agency found operating without the necessary licence will face arrest and legal action for non-compliance with established regulations. We are taking this issue very seriously to protect applicants and job seekers.
Q: What are the benefits of mandatory SLBFE registration for foreign job seekers?
A: Registering with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) is not just advisable—it is actually a legal requirement for individuals seeking overseas employment or sending workers abroad. Registration with the SLBFE offers numerous advantages to migrant workers and their families back home.
When registered with the SLBFE, migrant workers gain access to the pension scheme and crucial emergency assistance, ensuring they always have support in times of need. The SLBFE also provides scholarships for children of registered migrant workers, ensuring educational opportunities for their families. The Bureau assists with family healthcare needs and supports family members in self-employment endeavours.
Moreover, registered migrant workers and their families are eligible for housing and other financial loans, empowering them to build stable futures. Registering with the SLBFE is not just a legal obligation—it is a gateway to comprehensive support and benefits for Sri Lankan migrant workers and their families.
Q: Are you looking for new markets for our labour force?
A: Indeed, we are actively seeking to expand our labour force into new markets, particularly across Europe. While historically the Israeli market may have been relatively modest, our efforts have significantly broadened and diversified opportunities across various sectors there, even amidst the current situation in the region. Our aim is to elevate the earning potential for our workers, targeting a minimum salary of at least US$ 2,000 per month rather than settling for lower wages.
This year, I plan to facilitate the migration of at least 60,000 individuals for overseas jobs from every Grama Niladhari (GN) division, seizing upon the opportunities presented by these expanding markets. It is crucial for us to extend our reach and explore new avenues, with a strategic vision aimed at fostering entrepreneurship upon their return.
Q: Japan has also emerged as a new destination for foreign job seekers. Can you elaborate on the Japan SSW visa?
A: The Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa is a special status of residence designed to open doors for foreign nationals seeking employment in Japan. Initially limited to a few specific job categories, I recently managed to get the program expanded during my recent engagements in Japan.
This enhanced visa program now encompasses sectors such as aviation, agriculture, and construction, with plans underway to include building maintenance in the near future. Young individuals who are determined and willing to excel can secure long-term employment in Japan by passing necessary exams and mastering the Japanese language.
In collaboration with the Japanese embassy, we are actively preparing 10,000 individuals by enhancing their Japanese language proficiency to qualify for the SSW visa. We also held several awareness programs around the country. This initiative aims to provide significant opportunities for Sri Lankan workers in the Japanese job market.
Q: Some irregularities have been mentioned at the Committee on Public Finance (COPF) with regard to the electric car permit scheme for migrant workers. Are you looking into these complaints?
A: The primary objective of the electric car permit scheme was to bolster the country’s foreign exchange earnings—a vital source of revenue during challenging economic and political periods. At the inception of this initiative, migrant workers were hesitant to remit money to Sri Lanka due to prevailing economic uncertainties. This scheme aimed to channel remittances through legal avenues, facilitating the influx of much-needed foreign currency.
It is unfortunate that some individuals harbour envy or misconceptions about this program. Questions have arisen regarding how migrant workers can afford luxury vehicles, but we must remember that these individuals contribute significantly to our economy. Among them are professionals drawing very high salaries in Western countries.
Regarding the concerns raised by the COPF regarding transparency, I wish to clarify that transparency is paramount. The COPF has requested the publication of private vehicle ownership details, which poses ethical and legal dilemmas. The privacy of those who contributed to our nation’s economic stability by sending remittances must be respected. We are bound by our duty to protect their privacy, especially if there is a risk of legal repercussions.
Regarding allegations of Rs. 100 million in tax relief for imported vehicles, it is important to clarify that this is a policy decision aimed at promoting certain imports rather than a tax benefit.
While we are open to cooperating with any investigation and providing necessary information, we must ensure that the rights and privacy of our migrant workers are safeguarded throughout this process. These matters are sensitive and complex, and we will proceed with caution to uphold ethical standards and protect the interests of all parties involved.
Q: The Government has responded to long drawn-out salary related issues raised by the country’s plantation sector workers, with President Wickremesinghe announcing a daily wage of Rs. 1,700 for plantation workers. The Opposition says this decision is an election gimmick? Will the plantation companies agree on this matter, and if not, what measures will the Government take to ensure the rights of the plantation workers?
A: The salary increase for plantation workers has been a pressing issue since 2020, with no adjustments made during that time. Upon assuming office in 2022, I was approached by plantation unions regarding these longstanding grievances, marking the inception of our efforts two years ago. At the outset, some plantation companies had neglected to honor worker subscriptions, a clear breach of the legally-binding Collective Agreement governing the sector.
Unfortunately, one party withdrew from this agreement, leading to significant complications. Despite my invitations to both trade unions and plantation companies to reconcile within the Collective Agreement framework, consensus remained elusive. Instead, there were delays and legal consultations, particularly during a court case concerning a previous wage increase.
To address this impasse, we utilised our State powers to Gazette the salary increase, affirming our commitment to the workers’ cause. President Wickremesinghe has assured that the Government will vigorously defend this decision against any legal challenges from Plantation Management Companies (PMCs), prioritising the workers’ rights.
It is essential to note that these estates are Government-owned, with plantation companies solely responsible for administration. Disparities in capability and investment among these companies underscore the need for reform. The Government is open to forging new agreements with the companies committed to advancing the industry while respecting labour rights.
Claims of salary increases being unsustainable are refuted by evidence of hidden profits and mismanagement within the industry. If some companies insist on their inability to meet new wage standards, alternative entities prepared to uphold both fair pay and profitability stand ready to assume responsibility.
Our objective is clear: to secure equitable treatment and fair wages for plantation workers, ensuring sustainable growth and dignity within one of the most important industries. Ceylon Tea is the best and these workers produce it with their sweat and toil. We must recognise that immense contribution.
