24.1.2008
Diplomatic Relations Established with the Republic of Paraguay
Cabinet approved a memorandum submitted by the Minister of Foreign Affairs to establish diplomatic relations with the Republic of Paraguay. Although there is no significant political interaction between the two countries, it was pointed out that Sri Lanka and Paraguay cooperate in a variety of international organizations. Paraguay belongs to the Organization of American States, the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI), the Rio Group, INTERPOL and MERCOSUR (The Southern Cone Common Market), the Community of Democracies, the G-77 and is an observer state of the Non-Aligned Movement. It was pointed out that establishing diplomatic relations would benefit Sri Lanka in terms of enhancing support for Sri Lanka candidatures in international organizations, including those in the United Nations system.
New Law on Occupational Safety and Health
Cabinet approved a memorandum submitted by the Ministry of Labour Relations and Manpower to develop new legislation to ensure safety and health in all workplaces including plantations, shops and offices, building construction, and in the informal sector where around 60% of the people work. The Ministry presented this proposal after consulting the National Labour Advisory Council and drawing from technical support of the ILO with the intention of addressing shortcomings in the present legislation.
Term of Delimiting Committee to Establish New DS Divisions, Gazette Established DS Divisions and Revise GN Divisions Extended
Cabinet approved a memorandum submitted by the Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs to extend the term of the Delimiting Committee established to investigate numerous problems with respect to Divisional Secretary Divisions and Grama Niladhari Divisions. The decision was taken after considering the fact that practical difficulties had limited the opportunity to look into issues raised by civil organizations and also by the process of resettlement currently underway in the North and East.
Local Government Election System to be Revised
Cabinet approved a memorandum submitted by the Ministry of Local Government and Provincial Councils to revise the local government election system. Accordingly the ward system for local government elections has been accepted as a policy and it has been recommended that the First Past the Post System be re-introduced.
Anusha Palpita
Director of Government Information
Courtesy
- Government Information