COLOMBO : Senior Presidential Advisor Duminda Hulangamuwa has emphasized the need to reduce the public sector workforce from 1.3 million to 750,000, citing financial constraints in the Treasury. In contrast, Public Administration, Provincial Council, and Local Government Minister Prof. Chandana Abeyratne has stated that the government has no plans for public sector layoffs, prioritizing the preservation of employment.
Both perspectives hold merit. The former highlights fiscal sustainability, while the latter underscores social stability and job security.
As a potential solution, His Excellency A.K. Dissanayake could consider revising public sector working hours on a trial basis. Shifting to equal working hours across six days, instead of the current five-day schedule, would allow government offices to remain open on Saturdays. This adjustment could improve accessibility for the public and enhance the overall efficiency of public services.
Mohamed Zahran
Colombo
