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Appeal made to Mahanayake Theras over CEB VRS delay crisis
A collective of approximately 2,200 employees of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) who have applied for the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) has made an urgent appeal to the Most Venerable Mahanayaka Thera of the Malwathu Chapter, the Most Venerable Mahanayaka Thera of the Asgiri Chapter, and the Advisory Executive Council of the Sangha, seeking immediate intervention over delays in implementing the scheme.
In a written communication, the employees stated that they opted for voluntary retirement based on official government announcements and assurances issued under the restructuring framework of the CEB. However, they claim that the failure to declare an official “appointed date” for the restructuring process has left them in a state of severe uncertainty and hardship.
According to the group, applicants to the VRS are unable to formally leave service or proceed with future plans until the restructuring or abolition of the current CEB structure is gazetted. They allege that the continued delay has triggered what they describe as a “humanitarian crisis” affecting their livelihoods and families.
The employees highlighted several pressing difficulties arising from the delay. Some applicants who secured foreign employment opportunities after spending substantial sums of money now risk losing those placements, along with the investments and loans obtained to fund migration.
They also pointed to cases of family separation, noting that in certain instances spouses and children have already relocated overseas while the employee remains in Sri Lanka, disrupting children’s education and family unity.
Others said they had initiated business ventures after applying for retirement, including renting commercial premises, paying advances, and obtaining loans for equipment, but are now unable to proceed due to their continued employment status.
The prolonged uncertainty has also taken a toll on employee wellbeing, with several applicants reportedly experiencing stress-related health issues.
In their appeal, the employees respectfully requested the Mahanayake Theros and the Sangha leadership to advise the Government to provide an immediate and fair resolution.
They submitted two key proposals for consideration: the immediate declaration of the appointed date through a Gazette notification to end the prevailing uncertainty, and the issuance of an internal CEB circular granting approved no-pay leave to VRS applicants until the restructuring date is formally announced.
The letter was submitted collectively and bears the signatures of employees who have applied for the CEB Voluntary Retirement Scheme.
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