Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, Mahinda Amaraweera, conveyed President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s announcement to the Cabinet, stating that the government cannot afford to offer any salary increase to government employees this year. This decision was reiterated during discussions with union representatives from the animal production and livestock development sector.
Despite requests from trade union representatives for a salary increase, Minister Amaraweera emphasized the government’s financial constraints, as highlighted by the President in a recent Cabinet meeting. The Minister underscored the potential economic repercussions of granting salary increases this year, emphasizing the need for stability in the country’s economy.
While acknowledging the concerns raised by various professional groups for salary increments, Minister Amaraweera stated that the current economic situation prohibits further increases. He expressed regret over the inability to meet these demands but assured that solutions would be provided to address other professional issues.
Representatives from associations such as the Association of Veterinary Doctors and the Association of Animal Development Instructors actively participated in the discussions, reflecting the widespread interest and concern within the animal development sector.