Voting rights & pension scheme for Lankans abroad, announced

Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath today (Oct. 27) announced measures to grant voting rights to Sri Lankans working abroad and introduce a contributory pension system for expatriate workers, during the 40th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE).

Speaking at the event, the Minister said the Ministry of Public Administration has appointed a special committee to quickly establish the necessary legal framework and facilities to implement these initiatives.

The pension scheme aims to provide higher benefits to Sri Lankans living overseas, while the move to grant voting rights fulfills a long-standing promise to expatriates.

Highlighting the critical role of expatriate workers in strengthening the country’s economy, Minister Herath emphasized that improving their welfare is a top priority. He also noted that the foreign employment sector had previously suffered from irregularities due to the actions of certain parties. However, recent arrests and legal measures have successfully reduced illegal activities, ensuring a more transparent system.

A special commemorative cover was also released to mark the SLBFE’s 40th anniversary, celebrating the bureau’s efforts and reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting and empowering expatriate workers.

Foreign Minister Herath further stated that the foreign employment sector is now free from political interference, underscoring the government’s dedication to fair and transparent management of overseas employment.

(dailynews.lk)

(Except for the headline, this story, originally published by dailynews.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)