Environment Ministry to fill vacancies in 10 institutions to boost public service efficiency

Colombo, July 15 (Daily Mirror) - The Environment Ministry today announced steps to expedite the recruitment of employees to fill vacancies across institutions under its purview, with the aim of improving productivity and strengthening public service delivery.

The announcement was made at a media briefing held at the Ministry's auditorium, attended by Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi, Deputy Minister Anton Jayakody, Ministry Secretary K.R. Uduwawala and Director General of Wildlife Ranjan Marasinghe.

Officials outlined the new recruitment process, funding allocations, delegation of authority and the responsibilities to be assigned to Environmental Development Officers attached to District and Divisional Secretariats.

The Ministry oversees 10 institutions, including the Central Environmental Authority, Department of Wildlife Conservation, Forest Conservation Department, State Timber Corporation, Department of National Zoological Gardens, Department of National Parks, Water Resources Board, Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management Department, Marine Environment Protection Authority and the Sri Lanka Climate Fund.

The Ministry said the recruitment drive forms part of the government's "Sustainable Biosphere – Evergreen Life" environmental programme under its "Rich Country – Beautiful Life" policy framework, which prioritises strengthening environmental protection and ensuring sustainable management of natural resources for future generations.

Despite the prevailing economic challenges, the Ministry said Cabinet approval had been obtained to fill essential vacancies, allowing qualified personnel to be recruited and integrated into the public service to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of environmental institutions.