SLBFE gets tough with non-performing job agencies

by Ananda Agalakada

Although over 2,500 employment agencies are registered with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) only 700 agencies provide employment opportunities to Sri Lankans who seek foreign employment, SLBFE General Manager Harischandra Batagoda said.He told a workshop for foreign employment agents, that most agencies are not functioning and others had withdrawn from the SLBFE.

These agencies get an opportunity to engage in the trade by obtaining permits to send workers overseas for employment.

The SLBFE moniotors these agencies and stern legal action will be taken against those who charge exorbitant fees from job seekers, he said. Batagoda said that Foreign Employment and Welfare Minister Dilan Perera had said that a vigilant eye should be kept on agencies to ensure that whether they conduct their duties properly.

The minister called up of officials to hold investigations on complaints against these foreign employment agencies, he said. SLBFE source said although some people open agencies after getting one or two foreign jobs they are unable to continue in business due to inadequate job quotas in the long run.

The SLBFE will take a decision soon on such non-performing agencies.