SJB MP S.M. Marikkar 

• Says CBSL top management has come to realise that salary increase was unjust
• Claims despite requests by management, unions refusing efforts to reduce their salaries
• Accuses CBSL management of attempting to influence political parties through TUs
• Says opposition will take action if steps not taken to reduce increased salaries 

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP S.M. Marikkar yesterday claimed that Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) employees are willing to reduce their salaries, but it is the trade unions that are resisting. 

Addressing a press conference in Colombo, Marikkar said the CBSL top management has come to realise that the salary increase was unjust, particularly after the matter was continuously highlighted by the opposition led by the SJB.

He claimed that as a result, the top management has requested the trade unions to agree to a lower salary increment, however, the unions are refusing any attempt that will see a reduction in their salaries, which was increased only recently.  

The MP said if the CBSL moves to increase its salaries in this manner, all other state agencies will follow suit and attempt to obtain salary increases. 

“The top management of the CBSL has therefore requested the trade unions to agree to lower their salaries. A response by the unions had been provided on 14 March. It states that the CBSL employees union does not agree to make any changes to the salary amendments relating to 2024 - 2026,” the MP revealed. “They have also noted that if any changes under the current political and social circumstances are made it will also bring into question the decisions taken by the CBSL in recent times.”

He mentioned that the sudden request by the management is a direct outcome of the opposition’s intervention in the matter. “Previously, the management attempted to influence political parties through trade unions affiliated with political parties. However, since this approach was unsuccessful, they have now realised their mistake,” he claimed.

The MP asserted that it is clear the trade unions are only concerned with personal gain. He emphasised that Sri Lanka has numerous examples demonstrating the negative consequences when rulers adhere to the demands of trade unions.

“The Central Bank should work to revise and reduce the salary increase accordingly. If this is not done, we will have to take action,” he warned. 

The MP also accused the CBSL management of colluding with trade unions to obtain the salary increase and said the CBSL is now attempting to change their decision. 

He emphasised that neither a country nor the CBSL should be controlled by trade unions. “However, their response to the management’s request indicates that the CBSL is now under their control. We cannot allow such trade unions to destroy the country.” He said. 

Wijeyadasa insists CBSL has no authority to increase salaries