UNP critical of public sector allowance suspension

• Says the allowance cut will discourage State officials, reduce efficiency 
• Blames Govt. for fertiliser shortage, warns it could affect overall production

By Nuwan Senarathna

United National Party (UNP) yesterday criticised the Government’s decision to suspend the Rs. 15,000 special monthly allowance for executive grade public officers that was to come into effect from 1 January and warned there could be more instances of broken promises. 

The Government decided to suspend the payment of the special allowance following a Cabinet decision taken on 2 January. The Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry has issued a circular to all secretaries of ministries and chief heads of departments informing of the Government’s decision.

Speaking to media at UNP head office Sirikotha, Parliamentarian Palitha Range Bandara said the Government decision to suspend the allowance discouraged public officials. The Election promises to lift the living standards of public officials were therefore unfulfilled, he argued. 

“We view this decision as a betrayal of the mandate given to the Government in the Presidential Election. The Government promised to improve the living conditions of the public servants. However, now they have instead decided to suspend the allowance promised by our Government,” he said.

Bandara claimed the Government’s decision might affect productivity of the public sector, and undermine the efficiency of State services. He charged the Government was unable to deliver its Election promises even after 52 days since the Presidential Election.

“This Government came into power with many promises. They have been unable to deliver any of those promises yet. They were unable to control prices of essential foods, such as vegetables. The economy is in a very bad shape and the Government has been unable to address these challenges,” he charged.

Bandara also slammed the Government for being unable to provide sufficient amounts of fertiliser and not addressing a shortage of fertiliser in the market. 

“Farmers are unable to find sufficient fertiliser for their crops. This might affect the country’s agriculture production. This is letting down all 6.9 million citizens who voted for this Government,” he said.