Minister of Labour Nimal Siripala de Silva says there are certain obstacles in taking action against estates which do not pay a daily wage of Rs.1,000 to estate workers.
Speaking during an event in Hatton, Minister de Silva said salary increments, allowances and deductions used to be discussed under the terms of collective agreements.
The Minister said estate sector trade unions were unable to agree on such collective agreements due to all trade unions being divided.
The Labour Minister said estate workers are left helpless due to the lack of unity between trade unions while estate owners profit.
He said he was able to provide the Rs.1,000 daily wage due to his actions in organising a proper administration board.
He said the decision to provide the Rs.1,000 daily wage has been challenged before the Court of Appeal adding however the Court did not impose an injunction order therefore estate owners will have to pay the Rs.1,000.
Minister de Silva said over 85% of estates are paying the relevant amount adding however due to ongoing legal proceedings the government is unable to take action against those who don’t pay the Rs.1,000 daily wage.
