Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called on the government to immediately grant permanent appointments to Business Promotion Assistants attached to the Regional Development Bank (RDB), citing unfulfilled budget promises.
Speaking at a meeting held at the Opposition Leader's office with representatives of the RDB Business Promotion Assistants, Mr. Premadasa highlighted the precarious nature of their employment despite their significant contribution to the banking sector and the national economy.
Mr. Premadasa emphasized that the Regional Development Bank plays a crucial role in the country's economic revival program. He noted that the 492 Business Promotion Assistants currently employed have performed an exceptional service, particularly in mobilizing deposits for the bank.
Despite a previous budget proposal explicitly recommending permanent appointments for these employees to ensure their job security, the measure has yet to be implemented.
"We demand the current government to honor the pledge made in the budget. These employees have dedicated their service to the bank, and it is the government's responsibility to ensure their job security by granting them permanent status immediately," Mr. Premadasa stated.
The meeting was attended by a group of Business Promotion Assistants who sought the Opposition Leader's intervention to bring their grievances to the attention of Parliament. They expressed concern over the uncertainty of their jobs despite years of service.
