Colombo Port unions rock the boat at SLPA
In the wake of allegations of inaction and a slide in performance at the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), 17 of the 21 trade unions have teamed up to assist the new authorities.A section of the trade unions from the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) urged authorities on Thursday to bring back a former shipping industry official now resident overseas as its Managing Director during a media briefing held at the Ex-Servicemen’s Association Hall at Fort.
It was pointed out that the port required someone with the know-how on the subject overriding officials next in line within the organisation allegedly under investigation for corruption during the previous regime of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.UNP-controlled Jathika Sevaka Sangamaya (JSS) leader Udeni Kaluthanthri stated that they want to bring down Mr. G.M. Premachandra which had the concurrence of the minister as well.
He said at present about eight officials believed to be involved in corrupt practices at the port and currently under investigation and eligible, in terms of seniority, should not be considered for the post.Mr. Kaluthanthri noted that as opposed to appointing someone from within the organisation there is a possibility as per the Act of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority which states that the appointment to the MD post could be made by the minister. Unionists said that Ports Minister Arjuna Ranatunga had agreed to this appointment of Mr. Premachandra as well.
But it was found that there were currently petitions forwarded by officials vying for the post and in this regard, the trade unions have called for the establishment of a General Manager (GM) position within the SLPA as per its Act to ensure that these officials could continue rise the rank.
Industry experts say that the current establishment is unaware of the needs of the port and no (progressive) work seems to be getting underway.
SLPA has been sliding in its performance and figures at the SLPA indicate that transshipment volumes in September were down by 17.7 per cent, which industry officials believe is due to “lack of commitment and direction.”
Further the advisory panel established by Minister Ranatunga comprising industry experts has now been defunct since the last election. The advisory panel is expected to meet monthly to advise the SLPA on the way forward.