Thursday Jan 15, 2026
Thursday Jan 15, 2026
Thursday, 15 January 2026 00:24 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Public Administration Minister Prof. Chandana Abeyratne
The Government will expedite the establishment of the proposed Salary and Pensions Commission, Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister Prof. Chandana Abeyratne said, underscoring the administration’s commitment to managing public sector salaries and pensions in a sustainable manner.
The Minister made these remarks during a discussion held with representatives of several public sector trade unions at the Ministry on Tuesday, following requests from unions to accelerate the formation of the Commission to address longstanding salary anomalies and pension-related concerns.
Prof. Abeyratne said the 2026 Budget proposed the establishment of the Salary and Pensions Commission in response to salary disparities that have accumulated over the years, alongside broader challenges in public financial management. The proposed body is expected to offer structured and sustainable solutions for issues affecting public servants and pensioners.
He noted that the President had recognised the urgency of the matter and presented the proposal in the 2026 Budget, while also instructing Ministry Secretaries on 5 January to take steps to expedite the Commission’s establishment.
The Minister stressed that discussions on the Commission remain open to all public sector trade unions, adding that once established, the Commission would provide opportunities for public servants to submit their views either orally or in writing through their respective unions.
According to Prof. Abeyratne, the Ministry is already taking necessary steps in coordination with the President to ensure the Commission is set up promptly, with a focus on safeguarding the long-term sustainability of the public service.
MP Chandana Sooriyaarachchi and Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry Secretary S. Aloka Bandara also addressed the discussion.
Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry Additional Secretary Omali Wimalaratne, Department of Pensions Director General Chaminda Hettiarachchi, and representatives of public sector trade unions were among those present.
