Wednesday Nov 19, 2025
Wednesday Nov 19, 2025
Wednesday, 19 November 2025 00:27 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Cabinet Spokesman and Minister
Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa
The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved amendments to Order No. 3 of the Shop and Office Employees Act No. 19 of 1954 relating to service and wages regularisation, paving the way for legal provisions governing night work for female employees in the hospitality sector.
It was approved to forward the amended order to Parliament for legislative endorsement, following which it will be published in the Government Gazette.
“The proposed amendments specifically address female employees above 18 years working as waitresses at residential hotels and restaurants, allowing them to serve food between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. under regulated conditions,” Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday.
He said the move is aimed at ensuring legal clarity and protection for female staff working during night hours, while aligning with labour regulations and service industry requirements.
The proposal to this effect was submitted by Labour Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando.
