Efforts of EFC lead to relaxing night work restrictions in residential hotels to support tourism

Tuesday, 10 March 2026 00:04 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Sri Lanka has seen a strong surge in tourism in recent years, with the country becoming a popular destination for international travellers and recording a steady rise in tourists arrivals.

With this growth, residential hotels are playing a crucial role in supporting national economic development and generating employment opportunities. However, certain labour law restrictions, particularly those relating to the employment of female employees during night hours under the Shop and Office Employees’ Act have created practical challenges for private sector establishments. These limitations affect staffing flexibility and restrict opportunities for women to take on supervisory or managerial roles, impacting both operational efficiency and progress toward greater gender equality in the sector.

Recognising these challenges, the Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) actively engaged with policymakers and consistently lobbied for reform to amend the legal framework governing night work for women in residential hotels. The proposal was submitted to the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC), where tripartite constituents discussed the recommended reforms. The proposed amendment has now come into effect, allowing women aged 18 and above engaged as food and beverage stewardesses in residential hotels to be employed after 6.00 p.m. and before 6.00 a.m. of the following day, subject to employers providing suitable accommodation or transport facilities ensuring the health, safety and welfare of such female employees.

EFC said this amendment is significant as it facilitates uninterrupted hotel operations. At the same time, it promotes gender equality by removing statutory barriers that prevent women from accessing night shifts, leadership roles, and career advancement opportunities.

The EFC said it appreciates the Government’s decisive action in implementing these reforms, which reflects a shared commitment to economic growth and the promotion of inclusive workforce participation.