A special discussion was held yesterday (04) afternoon at the Ministry of Energy between the
Minister of Energy, Eng. Kumara Jayakody, and the trade unions of the Ceylon Electricity Board on
the Electricity Amendment Act, which was presented to Parliament on 23 rd May 2025 and is
scheduled to be debated and passed in Parliament tomorrow (06.08.2025).
While addressing the representatives of the trade unions, the Minister stated that the Electricity
Amendment Act has been introduced to carry out structural changes required by the power sector
which will enable it to face current challenges and future economic conditions, while also ensuring
state ownership of the power sector in line with the energy policy of the NPP. He further mentioned
that this would make it possible to reverse the CEB privatization plan initiated by the government
headed by Ranil Wickramasinghe, and secure state ownership of the power sector.
He further added that the process of introducing this act was carried out by allocating sufficient time
to raise awareness among CEB staff as much as possible and to obtain views and suggestions of all
stakeholders in the relevant field.
“As we have mentioned, we introduced this Amendment Act in good faith, in a manner that
does not violate privileges and rights of any current employee, while giving due consideration to
the cases that have been filed and determinations granted in this regard. We also provided the
trade unions with the opportunity to come up with their views in advance. A large number of
trade unions participated and expressed their views. Trade unions who were unable to attend
on that day are present with us today. We appreciate that. We are a people-centric government.
We will not make any decisions that are harmful to this country and its working people.
Therefore, we kindly request the trade unions and all employees to understand the value and
necessity of this Bill, and provide their support accordingly” he expressed.
Sharing their views, the trade union representatives appreciated the opportunity to share their views
once again, and stated that they believe the Minister would also acknowledge that, as responsible
trade unions, standing up for the rights and privileges of employees is a crucial responsibility.
Submitting several proposals in writing which are collectively agreed by all trade unions, they
emphasized that, as trade unions, they do not want any programs that would reverse the progress of
the power sector or hinder the development activities of the government. They also expressed their
readiness to respond positively to this Bill, provided that rights and privileges of employees are
secured and progress of the power sector is ensured.
The Director General of the Power Sector Reforms Secretariat, Mr. Pubudu Niroshan and several
trade union representatives participated in this event.