The Cabinet has approved an amendment to the Shop and Office Employees (Regulation of Service and Wages) Act, No. 19 of 1954, allowing female employees over 18 years old in food and beverage roles at residential hotels and restaurants to work beyond 10:00 p.m.

The current regulation permits night work only for certain hotel roles, but excludes food and beverage staff, creating operational issues in the hospitality sector.

The amendment, proposed by the Minister of Labour, updates the third regulation under the Act to reflect evolving industry needs and ensure smoother business operations while maintaining legal protections for female employees.