News
CWC leader calls upon TUs to be innovative and inclusive
CWC leader and Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development Minister Jeevan Thondaman, yesterday has called upon South Asian trade unions to embrace innovation and inclusivity.
Addressing the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) South Asia Trade Union Symposium, in New Delhi, the Minister said that there were pressing challenges and opportunities facing trade unions in the ever-evolving landscape of work.
A press release issued by the Ministry said: Minister Thondaman acknowledged the historical significance of trade unions in advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions. However, he emphasised that the challenges confronting today’s workforce are unprecedented, driven by automation, artificial intelligence, and the gig economy, necessitating innovative adaptation by trade unions.
Thondaman urged South Asian trade unions to harness technology’s power to empower workers.
“We must harness the power of technology to connect with workers across various sectors, ensuring their voices are heard.”
The Minister said that achieving diversity and inclusivity within trade unions themselves was essential to represent the diverse workforce of the region effectively. He reiterated that trade unions “should strive for diversity and inclusivity within” to stand up for the rights of all workers, regardless of their background or occupation.
Minister Thondaman said that there was a pressing need for collaboration and solidarity among trade unions across borders. He called for trade unions to work together across borders and industries to “create a stronger, more unified voice for workers’ rights on the global stage.” The Minister’s words resonate as a call to unite and amplify the collective power of workers worldwide.
Addressing specific concerns in Sri Lanka, Minister Thondaman touched upon the issues faced by estate workers, many of whom have been impacted by the lack of adequate legal protection. He also acknowledged the lack of protection for South Asian migrant labour, highlighting the pressing need for action and reform.
Voting commenced at 7.00am to elect members to 339 local councils in the island.
Voting is being held at 13,579 polling centers and will end at 4.00 p.m.
Vietnamese President Luong Cuong warmly welcomed President Anura Kumara Disanayake during an official ceremony held in Hanoi on Monday (05) morning
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was accorded a ceremonial welcome with full military honours upon his arrival at the Presidential Palace of Vietnam. He also took part in the inspection of the Tri-Forces Guard of Honour and the playing of the national anthems of Vietnam and Sri Lanka. The two leaders then introduced members of their respective delegations before proceeding for bilateral discussions during which both nation assessed their progress, explored avenues for future collaboration and signed Memoranda of Understanding.
Vietnam and Sri Lanka have upheld robust and enduring ties since they established diplomatic relations in 1970. and this visit aims to strengthen political trust and foster effective collaboration across multiple sectors between the two nations.
Sri Lanka and Vietnam engage in annual bilateral trade, primarily in exports, totalling around US$200 million. Both nations aspire to elevate this trade to US$1 billion in the near future.
President Dissanayake’s visit highlights Sri Lanka’s deep commitment to its longstanding friendship with Vietnam and demonstrates a mutual resolve to enhance collaboration in traditional sectors while exploring new opportunities in digital transformation, the digital economy, energy transition, artificial intelligence and connectivity.
[PMD]
Latest News
Heat index is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Eastern, Northern, North-western, and North-central provinces and Monaragala district
Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology At 3.30 p.m. 05 May 2025, valid for 06 May 2025
The public are warned that the Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Eastern, Northern, North-western, and North-central provinces and Monaragala district
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
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