As per a gazette notification issued last week by Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment Secretary R. P. A. Wimalaweera, the Minister has approved the wage increase for plantation sector workers.

The increase is applicable to both, Tea Growing and Manufacturing Trade and Rubber Cultivation and Raw Rubber Processing Trade with effect from 21 May 2024. 

“..., under Section 33(1)(a) of the Ordinance and published in Gazette Extraordinary No. 2381/35 of April 25,2024 the wage increase has been approved by Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment.

The decision shall come into force on the 21st of May, 2024,” it said. 

On 25th of last month, Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment Manusha Nanayakkara issued a gazette notification granting permission for the Commissioner of Labour to determine a minimum wage for workers in the Tea Growing and Manufacturing Trade and Rubber Cultivation and Raw Rubber Processing Trade.

The proposed new Rs.1700 living wage is a 70 percent increase when compared to current living wage of Rs.1000. 

Objections to the proposed determination were opened until 12.00 noon on 15th May. (NF)