Although the opposition was charging that the government is planning to curtail the pension payments, the Minister said that the government employees who will be appointed to the state sector from now on will be entitle to the new pension scheme. He said this will not affect those who are presently serving in state sector. The Minister further emphasised that the new government 's one million job opportunities program would be launched by his ministry.

The Minister made these observations on Tuesday (12) at Temple Trees at the event held to award appointment letters to 2592 graduates for a one year training period in different Ministries and Departments. Those who successfully completed the training period will be granted permanent appointment letters as Development Officers.

He further added that for a country and the people to be prosperous, a strong government service should be available in that country.

The Minister of Internal Affairs Wajira Abeywardhene participating in the occasion said that the Establishment Code and financial acts and regulations should be revised to cater to the new era. By the end of 2016 the eligible gtaduates will be attached to the government service according to the Premier Ranil Wickremasinghe's instructions, added the Minister.

Minister of Foreign Employment Thalatha Athukorala, Deputy Minister of Public Administration and Management Susantha Punchinilame, Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration and Management J.Dadallage and the Director General of Customs Chulananda Perera were also present on the occasion.