The Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts (COPA) has urged the Labour Ministry, in collaboration with the Central Bank, to immediately establish a digital system for managing Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) payment data. This recommendation, directed at the Labour Ministry Secretary, was made during a recent meeting chaired by State Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna. The meeting reviewed the Auditor General’s reports for 2021 and 2022 and assessed the Labour Department’s current performance.

The committee emphasized the need for the Labour Department to maintain a continuously updated data system to ensure public safety and security. Currently, after employers register with the Labour Department, EPF payments are sent to the Central Bank, which then provides payment data to the Labour Department every six months. COPA highlighted the necessity of moving from biannual to continuous data updates.

Additionally, the committee noted the underutilization of financial resources allocated for improving the digital data system, with significant portions of funds remaining unused in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Delays were attributed to the proposal for establishing a National Labour Market Information System, which diverted focus from immediate digitalization efforts. COPA suggested that there might be intentional delays from certain parties.

In conclusion, COPA underscored the urgent need for a digital data system for EPF payments to ensure timely updates and public safety. They recommended that the Central Bank and the Labour Department promptly hold a joint meeting to discuss and implement this system.

Officials reported that the Labour Department’s initial focus on digitalization was hindered by the proposal to establish a National Labour Market Information System, leading to significant delays. The committee voiced regret over the ongoing postponement of digitalization, hinting that certain parties might be intentionally causing these delays. In conclusion, the committee emphasized the critical need for a digital data system for EPF payments to ensure timely updates and enhance public safety, calling for immediate action from the relevant authorities.

In conclusion, the Labour Department's digitalization efforts have been significantly delayed due to the focus on establishing a National Labour Market Information System, raising concerns within the committee. They highlighted the urgent necessity for a robust digital data system for EPF payments to provide timely updates and enhance public safety. The committee strongly urged the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address these delays and implement the necessary digital infrastructure.