New Year holidays 2013

It should be noted that New Year holidays 13 and 14 April 2013 fall on a weekend and therefore private sector (including banks) would grant one-and-a-half days leave in lieu.

On a comparative study, Sri Lankans enjoy more holidays than other countries and should try to adjust for the sake of prosperity of the country. Further, the contribution of the banking sector towards international transactions is material. Unfortunately banks close on all holidays allocated for the public sector as well as the private sector.

Therefore, it is suggested that instead of closing for one-and-a-half days, additionally the staff be allowed to take paid leave suitably staggered, without the organisation being closed fully. The bank may adopt a public or private sector pattern of leave and permit paid leave for employees for the other days without closing fully.

It is hoped that constructive steps would be taken by the relevant authorities early.

15 April 2013 – additional public holiday:

It is observed that 15th April 2013 has been declared as an additional public holiday in lieu of New Year holidays falling on 13 and 14 April 2013 (week-end) public and private enterprises are entitled to eight statutory holidays, Poya holidays and weekend holidays in common.

In addition public enterprises are allowed to have five non statutory holidays and no additional holiday is due even when statutory holidays fall on weekends. The private sector is authorised to have additional holidays where statutory holidays fall on weekends.

In the circumstances it is not clear as to how 15 April 2013 is declared as an additional public holiday. Can any labour consultant explain the position?

S.R. Balachandran

Colombo 6