[lg policy] Sri Lanka: Implementation of Language policy

[Harold Schiffman]

Implementation of Language policy

A lively discussion took place over TV recently on the above subject
and a well-informed Tamil participant gave a very realistic picture of
the plight of her community due to the inordinate delay in the
implementation of the language laws. It was pointed out by the
eloquent speaker, among other things, that statements made at Police
Stations are recorded in Sinhala and the complainant is required to
sign a statement which he/she is unable to understand! This is because
there is no officer competent enough to record the complaint in the
language of the complainant.

There is a need to recruit retired public servants/teachers to be
posted to offices to handle day to day correspondence, etc., in
Tamil/Sinhala with an incentive allowance paid to them to teach Tamil
to Sinhala officers and Sinhala to Tamil officers (up to Grade 8 or
JSC level). Officers achieving the required proficiency should be
rewarded with an increment in salary. New recruits should be on
probation until they acquire the necessary proficiency in
Tamil/Sinhala.

M. H. Sourjah

http://www.island.lk/2010/02/13/opinion2.html

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