Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said on Friday that the government is moving toward implementing a new pay scale for public employees instead of introducing a dearness allowance.

Responding to questions from journalists after inspecting Gurudaspur Upazila Mini Stadium in Natore in the afternoon, the adviser said a pay scale commission has been formed after nearly a decade to address the issue comprehensively.

Dr Salehuddin said government employees would need to show some patience to receive improved benefits.

“A pay scale commission has been formed after 10 to 12 years and it is working sincerely. Once the commission completes its work and submits its recommendations, initiatives will be taken to implement them,” he said.

Speaking about the referendum, the finance adviser said the government is placing importance on it as part of its reform agenda.

He stressed that public participation in the referendum is essential to reflect the people’s true will.

“The government has made significant progress in reform activities, and the referendum will play a supportive role so that future governments can continue these reforms,” he added.

Several senior officials were present during the visit, including Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid, Finance Division Secretary Dr Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder, Economic Relations Division Secretary Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Science and Technology Ministry Secretary Md Anwar Hossain, Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner Dr A N M Bazlur Rashid, Natore Deputy Commissioner Asma Shahin, and Gurudaspur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Fahmida Afroz.

Earlier in the day, a delegation led by finance adviser visited Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project site in Pabna to review construction progress and exchange views with officials concerned.