Sri Lanka Ports Authority aims further progress in 2023

SLPA Chairman Keith D. Bernard addresses the employees at the commencement of work in the New Year last week

• Four new gantry cranes for East Container Terminal in the offing
• Stage V of Jaya Container Terminal expected to be completed in third quarter of 2023

Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) commenced work in the New Year 2023 with religious initiatives at its Sri Sambuddhathwa Jayanthi Chaithya premises last week.

The main function was held with the initiative of Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva and the SLPA Chairman Keith D. Bernard.

Expressing views at the occasion, the Minister emphasised that he would not hesitate to take all measures for the progress of the SLPA and securing industrial peace. He called for positive dedication of all to make SLPA’s development process a reality.

SLPA Chairman Keith D. Bernard said that everyone’s hope for the new year is filled with fresh thoughts for the improvement of personal and family life, institutional progress and finally as a country.

“The aspirations of all of you of the Sri Lanka Port Authority should be focused on attracting more ships into our terminals than the previous year and to increase revenue. This will also strengthen the economy for all. The Management and I will always be with you to take necessary decisions to fulfil those aspirations for the advancement of this institution.

The Chairman thanked the SLPA staff for dedicated performance in all spheres of work amidst challenges.

“As a result we became a profitable public institution last year too. The profits gained have been productively invested in the development of the East Container Terminal (ECT) which is of prime importance to all our employees for the long term development,” he said.

Bernard also stressed that SLPA must improve TEU operations in 2023 over the previous years: “We are also in the process of identifying various mechanisms and plans to increase our operational efficiencies and competencies. One such plan is to obtain four new Gantry cranes for the ECT, before the end 2023.”

Referring to a number of diverse projects initiated, the Chairman said the construction of Stage V of the Jaya Container Terminal (JCT) which at present is underway and expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2023.

This will enable operations of container vessels of medium size length that are difficult to be operated at the terminal right now.

He also stressed the need to work together to develop sophisticated and smart computer and information systems to provide excellent and efficient service and to attract more customers.

“We must take steps to employ modern machinery and equipment in all spheres of work and port operations. This will allow us to offer a more efficient service,” he added.

Chairman also acknowledged that the most asset of the SLPA is the human resource and said his responsibility is to ensure job and professional satisfaction.  

“We expect to take a number of measures for professional development in 2023. A human resource with relevant up to date knowledge is always an invaluable asset to us. My objective is to upgrade knowledge and personal development. Our objective through all the activities is to extend quality, efficient and productive service and place Sri Lanka Ports Authority at the top most level in the international shipping, maritime and logistics industry,” Bernard said.

The Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation K.D.S. Ruwanchandra, SLPA Vice Chairman Gayan Algewattege, Additional Managing Director (Technical) Susantha Abeysiriwardena, Actg. Additional Managing Director (Administration and Operations) Prabath Jayantha, Directors, Heads of Divisions, Executive Officials, a large number of employees, staff and trade union representatives also attended the occasion.