TUs to challenge Port City Commission Bill

Several trade unions, organisations and individuals are planning to challenge the recently presented-to-Parliament Colombo Port City Commission Bill in the Supreme Court.

“Six to seven unions have expressed interest in challenging the bill particularly since it exempts the operation of the Termination of Employment of Workmen (Special Provisions) Act, No. 45 of 1971 for companies operating within this special zone. That would mean workers don’t have any rights, among other issues,” said Palitha Athukorala, a senior trade union leader, who said there were others who were also planning to challenge the bill. The trade unions are those which are members of the National Labour Advisory Council.

Several key legislative enactments including, among others, the Urban Development Authority Act, No. 41 of 1978, the Municipal Council Ordinance (Chapter 252), and the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka Law No. 4 of 1978 are not applicable in the new economic zone in Colombo.

“The Government has presented the bill in parliament in such a way that it gives little time for people to challenge the bill owing to the New Year holidays next week. However we are hoping to at least register our FR case against the bill in the Supreme Court office within next week, “Mr. Athukorala said.