Constitution and the Public Service

Work has already been initiated on a program to raise the awareness of Public Servants of the provisions of the Constitution, especially those Constitutional Provisions related to Fundamental Rights, Public Service and Devolution. It is expected that a clearer understanding of the Rights provisions contained in the Constitution will assist the executive officers to perform their services to the public more effectively and in a way that would reduce the possibility of causing Fundamental Rights violations in the course of their duties.  It is also expected to increase awareness among Public Servants on the purpose and functioning of devolution of power, for a more efficient and development oriented provincial administration.

The program was launched on August 26, 2005 at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute. It was a full-day event including the launch followed by a seminar.

The event was focused on Higher Level Officers of the Public Service.

The Chief Guest at the launch was the Attorney General Mr. K. C. Kamalasabayson P. C. who in his address spoke on the importance of public servants, particularly at the higher levels being fully conversant with the provisions of the Constitution especially with regard to Fundamental Rights.

The Hon. D. E. W. Gunasekera, M. P. Minister of Constitutional Affairs and National Integration, said public officers at all levels should have an understanding of the key provisions of the Constitution, as well as divergent interpretations given to these provisions, to enable them to be more effective in performing their duties by the public.