Transport Minister Kumara Welgama said he would not hesitate to dismiss Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLCTB) depot managers who fail to pay employees’ salaries on time.

He said the minister, chairman and officers attached to the SLCTB headquarters draw their salaries on time.

“Workers at bus depots who toil do not get their salaries on time. This should not happen. Due to the weakness on the part of depot managers, workers ‘ salaries are not be paid on time. I will not hesitate to throw out depot managers who cannot pay workers’ salaries on time,” the minister said.

Welgama made these observations after inspecting an SLCTB depot in Anuradhapura last week. The minister said the Treasury provides Rs 10,100 for each worker.

“The balance money has to be provided by the depot. Managers should see to that their depots earn the balance money. I know that some managers are honest and efficient. They ensure workers get paid on time.

They also see that money with regard to buses purchased on lease, are paid on time. Managers can earn nothing by warming chairs. They should report to their depots early and ensure that all buses are put to the road to earn the revenue,” he said. Minister Welgama said depot workers complained that they are yet to receive their September salary.

“How can families of these workers live and sustain themselves without food?” he asked. The minister ordered the manager and officers to pay workers’ salaries or face the consequence. “ I will take stern action against mangers and officers who fail to carry out my orders,” Welgama said. The minister said despite shortcomings, the performance of the depot was satisfactory.