Samurdhi Pension Bill in Parliament soon

The Bill for pension rights to Samurdhi officials will be submitted to Parliament shortly, as it has been already approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.  According to the proposed Bill, Samurdhi officials will get pension rights from the date of assuming duties.

This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Economic Development Lakshman Yapa Abeywardene participating as the chief guest at the opening ceremony of the Samurdhi 2011 exhibition held at the Uyanwatte Esplanade in Matara.

The Deputy Minister further said that Rs. 140 million has already been allocated to provide salary increases to the Samurdhi officials.  He said that the ‘Divi Neguma’ programme has achieved over 80% success and it has contributed mainly to the reduction in vegetable prices.

Explaining about the future programme of the Samurdhi movement, he said that arrangements have been made to produce export items by the Samurdhi families and they will be provided with expertise and assistance required for this purpose.

He said 20 Dimo trucks would be distributed to self employed personnel in the Weligama area and the allowance being provided for Samurdhi families will be increased to Rs. 1,500 from the present amount of Rs. 750.

Southern Provincial Council Member Aruna Gunaratne also addressed this function.