Govt. to strengthen public service

Friday, 10 February 2017 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

State Finance Minister says strengthening Govt. service critical for economic development
Currently 1.4 m people serving the public sector
Denies allegations that public servants intentions are to disrupt Govt.

By Charumini de Silva

The Government yesterday acknowledged the importance of the public sector, calling it a vital pillar to strengthen the country’s economy.

State Finance Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena pointed out that in a country where the public service is driven by a welfare policy, strengthening the Government service was critical for economic development.

“The President and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) are of the view of strengthening the public sector to improve the economy,” he said at press briefing held at the Finance Ministry yesterday.

According to the Minister, there are 1.4 million people employed in the public sector at present.

He asserted that politicians and public servants should have a clear understanding to work together for the betterment of the country.

“I do not think any public servant would have the intention of disrupting the Government. I believe that we should encourage independence and the authority given to the public servants to develop the economy,” he added.

Abeywardena also emphasised that it was imperative to have a sound public and private sector that worked hand-in-hand.