Manusha highlights need for comprehensive multi-stakeholder task force for labour welfare 

Minister Manusha Nanayakkara in discussion with ILO officials

Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara yesterday stressed the need for a comprehensive multi-stakeholder task force combining relevant ministries and the International Labour Organization (ILO) to implement programmes aimed at the welfare of workers. 

Nanayakkara told a discussion held at the ministry premises yesterday that he has requested the ILO to conduct a study on the programmes implemented for the welfare of workers by the Labour and Foreign Employment Ministry.

The meeting was attended by Imon Brimblecombe, Chief Technical Adviser of the International Labour Organization and Head of Regional Action Service Unit, and Mariko Ouchi, Senior Social Security Specialist of the ILO, among others.

The minister during the meeting emphasised the need to establish this task force involving all relevant parties including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Social Empowerment and Trade Unions and Employers’ Associations in addition to various departments of his Ministry. 

Also he emphasised the importance of the ILO acting as an observer and playing a key role in these discussions. 

The Ministry has recently taken necessary steps to implement a comprehensive labour reform programme with the introduction of an unemployment insurance system, maternity benefits, and new methods of providing compensation to workers.