Private sector pay hike next month

The government yesterday said salaries of private sector employees would be increased from next month, following a request made by the Labour Minister.

The private sector responded positively to a request made by Minister Athauda Seneviratne for a 15% to 30% pay hike for private sector employees.

Minister Seneviratne said the pay hike would come as a temporary solution for the skyrocketing cost of living largely triggered by rising world oil prices.Mr. Senevirate said the ultimate objective would be sustainable development through improving productivity. He said the pay hike would be implemented following discussions with the relevant parties.