Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara launched the Garusaru website, aimed at including those employed in the informal sector on Friday (26).
The website was launched during the Jayagamu Sri Lanka programme held at Madduwa Ground in Ratnapura.
The Garusaru website provides a platform for informal sector workers to register at www.garusaru.lk. Upon registration, they will receive a personalized QR code. This registration opportunity is open to individuals employed in 20 different fields.
Those employed in these 20 fields do not currently contribute to a social security system. The Garusaru programme aims to establish a mechanism to ensure a social security system for those employed in the following sectors: three-wheeler driver, car mechanic, artist, beautician, carpenter, diver, domestic housekeeper, fisherman, bakery and food delivery worker, journalist, mason, ornamental fishing industry worker, painter, plumber, preschool teacher, private bus driver.
The Minister said: “This country is not yet ready to recognise you as professionals. You have been categorised as informal. Even though the Labour Department was established in 1900, you aren’t recognised as professionals like public and private sector employees are.
That’s why we’ve emphasised the dignity of service in our new Employment Bill.
“We have prepared the Bill and forwarded it to the Attorney General’s Department. When you form your professional association and draft a constitution for your profession, you gain the opportunity to officially publish the rules, conditions, and qualifications through the constitution.
“Once standards are established, a licencing system will be introduced. Once in place, having a licence will become mandatory for employment, which will enhance the level of professionalism in the informal sector.
Many people prefer to maintain the status quo and engage in politics constantly. The President has authorised me to establish a social security system. In two weeks, the proposal will be submitted to the Cabinet for approval.
