This introduction was made in line with the promise outlined under the Pride Place of Three Wheelers in the Mahinda Chinthana – Vision for the Future policy manifesto, the minister said.

Under the social security system the drivers and owners of three wheelers in countrywide could be benefited with an insurance cover and a pension scheme.

The Minister said this in response to a question raised by UNP Hambantota District MP Sajith Premadasa.

The social security system had been developed by collecting information and details of three-wheelers registered at district levels. The drivers and owners between the ages of 18 to 59 years were eligible to become beneficiaries of the new scheme. Those who become members of the new social security scheme would be entitled to receive monthly pension payment since the day they reach the age 60 years. The member himself could decide the amount of pension payment he would receive someday, the minister said.

Minister Dr Amunugama said that the pension scheme would be implemented through the District Secretariats and divisional secretariats and with the participation of the National Federation of United Three Wheel Drivers' Association countrywide. (HC)

Special Reporter