Why are Grama Sevakas not being supervised by the Divisional Officer and the Government Agent (Distr

Tuesday, 22 September 2015 00:11 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

I went to the Grama Sevaka of Kuppiyawatte West to collect a form to apply for my National Identity Card as the one I have has faded. His office is situated in the temple premises.

He apparently comes only on two days in the week and on both days a large crowd waits to see him. My mission was merely to collect the blank form which is not issued by the Department issuing National Identity Cards.

This Grama Sevaka comes around 10 a.m. and leaves by 1 p.m. I thought Government offices open at 8:30 or 9 a.m. and close at 4:15 p.m. Why are the Divisional Officers in charge of them not supervising them? Instead they are allowed to work as they please.

I have myself worked as a Government Agent and am surprised at the lack of diligence in attendance by these officials who have so much to do with the public.

He is supposed to certify residence. But he hardly knows anybody and merely signs whatever document he has to certify.

I am aware how the SLFP disrupted the efficient public service we inherited from the British. But some corrective action is necessary at least by the UNP.

Will the Minister in charge please instruct that the work of the Grama Sevakas is supervised by the Divisional Secretary and the latter supervised by the Secretary to the Ministry?

R.M.B. Senanayake