Hon. (Dr.) Kaushalya Ariyarathne - Deputy Minister of Mass Media
2026-02-17
Deputy Minister Ariyarathne acknowledged widespread complaints from journalists regarding exploitative pay-per-piece arrangements in private media, including the absence of EPF/ETF contributions and inadequate remuneration. She noted that the Ministry's regulatory authority is limited, as private media companies fall under the Companies Act and labour law. However, she stated that on 7 January 2026, the Director General of Government Information wrote formally to all private media institutions requesting that they ensure proper payment practices in recognition of journalists' professional standing.
We receive numerous complaints from journalists and professionals about private media. Pay-per-piece systems often mean no EPF/ETF and inadequate payments. However, private media operate as companies under the Companies Act and are governed by labour law; the Ministry’s influence is limited.
Nevertheless, as a mark of respect to journalists, on 2026.01.07 the Director General of Government Information, Mr. H.S.K.J. Bandara, wrote to all private media institutions requesting that they make proper payments, upholding professional dignity.