• TUs cite concerns over past track record, asks minister to reconsider appointment

The United Employees Union of the Palmyrah Development Board (PDB) has urged Plantation Minister Vijitha Herath to reconsider the prospective appointment of Mariapillai Selvin as the new Chairperson of the Palm Development Board. In a letter addressed to the minister, the union raised serious concerns regarding allegations of corruption, fraud, and irregularities associated with Selvin.

The union highlighted ongoing investigations into Selvin’s activities during his previous tenure as a PDB Executive Director. The union’s letter referred to audits conducted between 2015 and 2019, which reportedly revealed fraudulent activity involving millions of money. The audits, according to the union, confirmed financial irregularities, and the State ministry is currently taking steps to recover the misappropriated funds.

In light of these findings, the union strongly urged the minister to reconsider the nominee’s suitability for the position of Chairperson. The employees expressed concerns that appointing someone implicated in such serious financial misconduct could undermine the integrity of the board and jeopardise its operations.

The union stressed that the appointment should be based on a clean record and the ability to lead with transparency and accountability. They warned against the potential risks of entrusting a critical position to someone who has allegedly engaged in financial malpractice.

The Ministry of Plantation Industries is yet to respond to the union’s concerns. Several attempts made to contact Minister Herath and the PDB regarding the allegations and the request of the unions proved futile.