The Deputy Minister made these remarks in Parliament today (17), responding to an oral question raised by National People's Power (NPP) Kurunegala District MP Dharmapriya Dissanayake.

Highlighting the need for a proper regulatory body to protect the labor rights, professional dignity, and professionalism of journalists—and to advocate for them when their rights are violated—the Deputy Minister stated that steps are being taken to establish a Chartered Institute of Media. She further noted that the Attorney General’s Department has already approved the bill for the establishment of this chartered body.

She emphasized that once this institution is established, journalists will have the opportunity to carry out their professional duties with due dignity.

Welfare and Social Security

The Deputy Minister also mentioned that:

• The scholarship program for journalists will continue this year.

• The government is focusing on providing health insurance for media professionals.

• Specific attention is being paid to provincial journalists, who currently lack social security programs. Several rounds of discussions have already been held regarding their health insurance coverage.

Industry Challenges and Salary Issues

The Minister revealed that numerous complaints have been received regarding the non-payment of salaries by certain private media entities. In response, a formal letter has been issued under the signature of the Director General of Government Information.

Concluding her remarks, she pointed out that the lack of recognition of the media sector as a formal industry remains a challenge. She assured that a program will be developed to transform the media field into a recognized industry and emphasized that the current government is constantly working towards the well-being of journalists.