The Parliament of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka has enacted the Mediation Board (Amendment) Act, No. 2 of 2024, amending the Mediation Board Act, No. 72 of 1988. Here are the key amendments:
http://documents.gov.lk/files/act/2024/1/02-2024_E.pdf: Mediation Board Act, No. 72 of 1988 Amended
1. Short Title and Replacement of Section 2:
- The Act is named the Mediation Board (Amendment) Act, No. 2 of 2024.
- Section 2 of the principal enactment is repealed and replaced to establish a Commission of five members, reflecting the pluralistic character of Sri Lankan society.
2. Appointment, Term, and Removal of Commission Members:
- Members include those with judicial, legal, administrative, or private sector expertise.
- The President appoints a Chairman and Commissioners for a three-year term.
- No appointment after reaching the age of seventy.
- Provision for resignation, removal, and eligibility for re-appointment.
3. Quorum, Procedure, and Legal Immunity:
- Three members constitute a quorum for Commission meetings.
- Chairman and Commissioners receive remuneration determined by the Minister.
- Legal protection for acts taken in good faith.
4. Amendment of Section 6:
- Introduction of officers assigned to each Mediation Board area within Divisional Secretariats.
- Special provision for disputes under the Mediation (Special Categories of Disputes) Act, No. 21 of 2003.
5. Amendment of Section 7:
- Increase in the monetary value of disputes subject to mediation.
- Empowerment of the Minister to amend monetary values through regulations.
6. Insertion of Section 9A:
- Automatic referral of disputes falling under specified categories to the Chairman of the Panel of Mediators.
- Entitlement for applicants in certain circumstances.
7. Replacement of Section 12:
- Introduction of a certificate of non-settlement and reasons for non-settlement.
8. Transitional Provision:
- Existing Chairman and Commissioners continue until the new Commission is appointed.
These amendments aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of mediation processes, ensuring accessibility and fairness in dispute resolution.
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