Sri Lankan Defense Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne says the Private Security Industry is an emerging industry and the support given by the Industry is immense as they are contributing to national security. “Besides contributing to the economy and creating job opportunities for citizens; most importantly for personnel who used to serve in the Armed Services of Sri Lanka, the private security companies are contributing a greater share in ensuring the national security of the country which has evolved into a wider spectrum of security needs in the recent past,” General Gunaratne said.
“Holding the responsibility of ensuring national security as the Secretary Defense, it is my strong belief that the members of the private security entities of almost 150,000 have become an integral part of it, as stakeholders in the national security apparatus in Sri Lanka.” The Defense Secretary made these remarks addressing Sri Lanka Security Service Providers as the Chief Guest during their Association’s ‘Annual General Meeting – 2021’.
Referring to the President’s Election Manifesto which has given the lion’s share to national security, he said Secretary Defense is responsible for national security whether it is fail or success, adding that the command, authority, responsibility and accountability relating to national security also lie on his shoulders.
Further speaking to pioneers in Sri Lankan private security services, he said it is an emerging industry which shows development across the country despite the current economic crisis experienced due to COVID-19 pandemic.
This development is driven by diverse factors including the increased pressure for risk mitigation by businesses and corporate entities, he reasoned.
Illustrating the numerous challenges faced by this industry, such as adequate knowledge of multitasking and technology to perform security and safety functions, he stressed “the development of skills becomes a crucial factor where investment in human capital becomes vital in preparing it to take on greater responsibilities”.
Citing the poor benefits, lack of compensation packages, absence of proper insurance policies and career development avenues for employees as the main causes that have led to weaken the industry, Gen. Gunaratne opined their managements to dispose appropriate measures to curtail such lapses in order to uphold the quality of their services.
The Defense Secretary also highlighted the crucial need of shifting to sophisticated technology, specialized security academies and training in order to meet the advancement of technology and growing security threats.
