The Message: “It is with great pleasure that I extend my best wishes to all working people on this International Workers’ Day.

“The International Workers’ Day, which was started to win workers’ rights, is the greatest day of the working people. “The commitment made by working masses for the betterment not only of their country in general but of the world as a whole has always been highly commendable.

“I take this opportunity to appreciate your contribution and your efforts to ensure the well-being of all.

As we all know, International Workers’ Day is a day to show the world the strength and unity of the working masses.

“However, due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, International Workers’ Day has to be celebrated without demonstrations and rallies, as it was done last year.

In such a situation, I hope that the Sri Lankan working people will celebrate May Day in a new way, in line with health guidelines.

“I remind you that no matter how difficult the situation, our Governments have given due respect to the working people. As always we are also committed to protecting workers’ rights.

“It is a great achievement for us to be able to pay the promised daily wage of Rs.1,000 for plantation workers which I promised in the budget 2021.

“I would also like to remind you that it is an honour for our Government to be able to protect workers’ rights by updating a number of Labour Acts such as the Employees Provident Fund Act, the Industrial Disputes Act and the Compensation Ordinance for the benefit of the working class.

During this May Day, celebrated under the theme “a people-friendly workplace, a safe country” I firmly believe that the working masses will work together to uplift the local economy“I appreciate your commitment to work day and night for socio-economic development even in the face of the unprecedented COVID 19 epidemic and extend my gratitude for your contribution to controlling the epidemic.

May the working people of the world be victorious!”

- Source- Daily news