Stewardship

Corporate Governance

Chairman’s statement

I am pleased to introduce the Bank’s Corporate Governance Report on behalf of our Board. This report includes details of how governance underpins and supports our business and the decisions made to deliver our strategy and create long-term value for our shareholders.

The Board sets the example for employees of the Bank by implementing the highest standards of business ethics and corporate governance.

The high standards of corporate governance continue to be a key priority for the Board. Corporate governance practices of the Bank are in accordance with the Board approved Corporate Governance Charter of the Bank.

The Bank’s corporate governance framework is well-structured and is supported by a strong focus on integrity, transparency, and clear and timely communication.

We continually review the framework within which we operate and the processes implemented, to ensure that they reflect the complexities of our business and meet the needs of our stakeholders. The Board understands the benefits of annual performance evaluations, both for Directors on an individual basis as well as for the Board as a whole and looks for ways in which it can improve and develop.

I confirm to the best of my knowledge that there were no material violations of any of the provisions of the Directions of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, other applicable laws and regulations, codes of conduct, and other related policies and procedures of the Bank.

J Durairatnam
Chairman

17 February 2021

Mandate of the Board

The Board is responsible for the Bank’s system of corporate governance and is committed to maintaining high standards and to developing governance arrangements to comply with best practice. Ultimate responsibility for the management of the Bank rests with the Board of Directors. The Board focuses primarily upon strategic and policy issues and is responsible for the Bank’s long-term success. It sets the Bank’s strategy, oversees the allocation of resources and monitors the performance of the Bank. It is responsible for effective risk assessment and management. The Board has a formal schedule of matters reserved to it and delegates certain matters to its committees. Board meetings are held ordinarily on twelve scheduled occasions during any given year, as well as holding ad hoc meetings to consider non-routine business if required.

The interactions in the governance process are shown in the schematic below:

Governance framework of the Bank

Main elements which encompasses the governance framework of the Bank.

Good corporate governance is a mechanism that harmonises the interests of a wide range of stakeholders of an institution, while contributing to sustainable growth by attracting outside sources of capital. The Bank practices high standards of corporate governance based on the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) principles of good governance.

OECD principles of good governance are based on the following six guidelines:

  • Promoting transparency, being consistent with laws, and clearly articulating division of responsibilities
  • Protecting and facilitating the exercise of shareholder rights and ensuring equitable treatment of all shareholders
  • Exercising due diligence and responsibility in capital market operations
  • Recognising the rights of stakeholders and encouraging cooperation between stakeholders in creating wealth and sustainability
  • Timely and accurate disclosure on all material matters regarding the Bank including financial situation, performance, ownership, and governance
  • Ensuring the strategic guidance of the Bank, effective monitoring of management of the Board, and the Board’s accountability to the Bank and its shareholders

DFCC Bank’s goals of good corporate governance

Board culture

Directors are encouraged to be open and forthright in their approach, with active debate encouraged during Board meetings before any decisions are taken. We believe this helps to forge strong and open working relationships while enabling our Directors to engage fully with the Bank and allowing them to make their best possible contribution.

Conduct and ethical framework

The Code of Conduct for Directors adopted by the Bank which the Directors are expected to abide by, encompasses the following:

  • Compliance with laws, rules, and regulations
  • Avoidance of conflicts of interest
  • Maintenance of confidentiality of information
  • Fair dealing with stakeholders
  • Protection of the Bank’s assets

Employee behaviour is governed by a separate Code of Conduct including other policies and procedures such as the Disciplinary Code, Statement Prohibiting Insider Trading, Whistleblowing Policy, Anti-Money Laundering Policy, Compliance Policy, Disclosure Policy etc.

Permanent Board Committees as at 31 December 2020

* The Credit Restructure Committee approves papers by circulation.

Attendance of Directors at meetings
Name of Director Main Board Audit Committee Human
Resources and
Remuneration
Committee
Nomination
and
Governance
Committee
Integrated Risk
Management
Committee
Credit
Approval
Committee
Related Party
Transactions
Review
Committee
Total number of meetings 12 12 3 6 5 9 11
K P Cooray 7/7 2/2 4/4 4/4 7/7
T Dharmarajah 2/2 3/3 1/1 2/2
J Durairatnam 12/12 3/3 6/6 9/9 11/11
Ms L K A H Fernando 11/12 11/12 5/5
P M B Fernando 12/12 12/12 6/6 9/9 11/11
Ms H M N S Guawardana 6/6 1/1 3/3
N K G K Nemmawatta 12/12 8/9
N H T I Perera 12/12
Ms V J Senaratne 11/12 2/2 4/5
L H A L Silva 12/12 5/5 10/11
Ms S R Thambiayah 12/12 3/3
H A J De S Wijeyeratne 6/6 6/6

Attended/Eligible to attend

Shareholder rights

The basic rights of shareholders include – (a) the ability to transfer shares freely, (b) to have access to financial and other relevant information about the entity on a regular and timely basis, (c) the ability to effectively participate in shareholder meetings, (d) appoint Directors and Auditors, and (e) equitable treatment relating to the type of shares owned.

The shares of the Bank are freely transferable through the Colombo Stock Exchange but subject to limitations stated in the Articles of Association of the Bank and the Banking Act.

During the year the Board reviewed and updated the Corporate Communications Policy which ensures that information relating to the financial performance and the progress of the Bank is made available to shareholders through timely disclosures made to the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE). The Annual Report contains a comprehensive review of performance as well as other information of relevance to the other stakeholders apart from reporting on the financial condition of the Bank and the Group. All important information is given publicity through the press and electronic media and posted on the Bank’s website.

The Bank has procedures to promptly disseminate price sensitive information and trading in shares by the Directors to the CSE as required by the Listing Rules. In instances where this is not possible, the Chief Financial Officer advises closed periods for trading in the Bank’s shares by employees and Directors. The Board has formally adopted a Statement of Policy Prohibiting Insider Trading. As a general rule, the period after the end of each quarter up until two market days after the financial information is released, is treated as closed periods. Procedures are in place to detect any violations.

During the year under review, the Bank has shared a reasonable portion of its profit with shareholders in the form of a dividend while retaining the balance to support its growth and development. This year the Bank also distributed part of the dividend as a scrip dividend.

All shareholders of the Bank are treated equally on the basis of one vote per ordinary share. The Bank has not issued any non-voting ordinary shares or preference shares.

Shareholder meetings

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Bank is normally held within a period of one year from the date of the previous Meeting after giving adequate notice to shareholders as required by the Articles of Association. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Annual General Meeting initially scheduled for 30 March 2020 had to be postponed. In view of the Government’s Directive on social distancing and limitations on gatherings the AGM was later held as a virtual meeting on 24 June 2020, assembled at the “Auditorium” of the Bank, with shareholders’/proxy holders connecting via an online platform.

The Annual Report and Notice of Meeting are sent to all shareholders in order to enable effective shareholder participation at the Meeting. Shareholders have the opportunity to obtain the Annual Report as an electronic or printed document. Extraordinary General Meetings are held to obtain shareholder approval on matters that require such approval.

During the year an Extraordinary General Meeting was also held as a virtual meeting and the approval of the shareholders were obtained to issue listed, rated, unsecured, subordinated, redeemable debentures (BASEL III Compliant) with a term of up to a maximum of seven years.

Annual Corporate Governance Report for the year ended 31 December 2020 published in terms of Section 3 (1) (xvi) of the Banking Act Direction No. 11 of 2007

Rule Governance principle Compliance Remarks
3.1 Responsibilities of the Board
3.1 (i) Safety and soundness of the Bank
The Board has strengthened the safety and soundness of the Bank through the implementation of the following:
(a) Strategic objectives and corporate values Compliant The Bank sets its strategic objectives and goals through the Annual Business Plan which is approved by the Board. These goals and the corporate values approved by the Board are communicated to the business units and other staff. The corporate values are posted on the internal web and all employees are guided by these values.
(b) Overall business strategy Compliant The Bank’s Strategic Plan for the medium term was approved by the Board in December 2019.

The Board engages in the strategic planning and control of the Bank by overseeing the formulation of business objectives and targets, assessing risks by engaging qualified and experienced personnel, delegating them with the authority for conducting operational activities and monitoring the performance through a formal reporting process.

A separate item has been included in the agenda at every Board meeting under the heading “Strategic Discussion” to take up any matter of strategic importance to the Bank. Directors are encouraged to identify and communicate any matter they consider to be of strategic importance.
(c) Principal risks Compliant The identification of principal risks, approving of overall risk policy and risk appetite is carried out through the Board Integrated Risk Management Committee and reviewed annually.
(d) Communication with stakeholders Compliant The Board approved Corporate Communications Policy ensures that information is made available to shareholders and other stakeholders through timely disclosures made to the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), by publicity through the press and electronic media and posts on the Bank’s website. The Policy was revised during the year.

The Bank has an internally developed Code of Conduct for its employees which is posted on the internal web and is accessible by all employees. The Bank has also adopted a separate Code of Conduct for the Directors.
(e) Bank’s internal control and management information systems Compliant The Audit Committee assists the Board in reviewing and evaluating the integrity, adequacy, and effectiveness of the internal control system including management information systems and controls over financial reporting of the Bank. The internal audit carries out periodic reviews to ensure that the internal control systems are functioning as appropriate. The Report by the Board of Directors on internal control over financial reporting is given in the section on the Directors’ Statement of Internal Controls. The Independent Assurance Report by the External Auditor on the Directors Statement on Internal Control is given in the Independent Assurance Report.
(f) Key Management Personnel (KMP) Compliant The Board has identified and designated its Key Management Personnel.
(g) Authority and responsibility Compliant Areas of authority and key responsibilities of Directors have been set out in the Corporate Governance Charter which has been adopted by the Board. During the year, the Charter was reviewed and updated. The Board has also identified matters specifically reserved for the Board. The duties and responsibilities of other KMPs are formally documented in their job descriptions. Delegation of authority levels for KMPs has also been clearly specified in Board approved circulars.
(h) Oversight of the affairs of the Bank by KMPs Compliant Oversight is exercised through Board committees, reporting to the Board as appropriate. Policies and decisions of the Board requiring appropriate follow up are communicated by the Board Secretary to the relevant KMPs.

Minutes of relevant management committee meetings headed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) are submitted to the Board for information. KMPs are called upon to clarify matters and make presentations on matters within their purview at the monthly Board meetings.
(i) Board’s own governance practices Compliant An annual self-assessment is carried out on a structured format where the Directors submit their individual responses direct to the Board Secretary. The responses are collated by the Board Secretary and submitted to the Board. The effectiveness of the Board’s own governance practices is reviewed by the Board and areas for improvement are discussed for necessary action.

During this year too, in addition to the assessments carried out by the individual members, the Nomination and Governance Committee, based on a separate checklist, carried out an evaluation of the Board and the results were shared with the other members of the Board and an opportunity was provided to them to comment on the findings of the Committee.
(j) Succession plan for KMPs Compliant The Bank has in place a succession plan for Senior Management which is reviewed annually by the Nomination and Governance Committee and approved by the Board.

The Committee which was formed comprising a member of the Audit Committee, CEO, and Head of HR to improve the process of succession planning met during the year and reviewed the progress on the development initiatives that have been put in place.
(k) Regular meetings with KMPs to monitor progress Compliant Meetings are attended by relevant executives when required. Additional information sought by Directors on papers submitted to the Board is clarified by the respective officers. The Board has free access to Senior Management.

The Business Initiative Board Committee established to drive business area relating to media and branding, continued to function during the year and the members of this Committee met KMPs on a regular basis to review the status of implementation of identified strategies.
During the year, the Board reviewed the performance in order to monitor progress against the business plan. These presentations provided an opportunity for the Board members to interact with the Senior Management to clarify reasons for variations against the budget and to suggest corrective action.
(l) Regulatory environment Compliant The Board Secretary provides all regulatory information required to the Board members.

The CEO briefs the Board on specific issues. Senior Management maintains continuous dialogue with the Regulator to ensure an effective relationship.
(m) Due diligence in hiring and oversight of External Auditor Compliant The primary responsibility for making recommendations on the appointment of the External Auditor rests with the Audit Committee.

A formal policy approved by the Board on engagement of External Auditor to perform non-audit services is in place.
3.1 (ii) Appointment and segregation of the roles
of the Chairman and CEO
Compliant The Board elects the Chairman and appoints the CEO. While the Chairman provides leadership to the direction, oversight, and control process exercised by the Board, the CEO is responsible for management of the Bank.
3.1 (iii) Board meetings Compliant The Board held 12 Board meetings during the year. The Directors actively participated in the Board’s decision-making process as evident from the Board minutes. Seeking approval of the Board by circulation was done only in exceptional circumstances due to urgency.
3.1 (iv) The Board to ensure that arrangements are in place for Directors to include items and proposals in the agenda of Board meetings Compliant Whenever the Directors suggest topics for consideration at the Board meetings, they are included in the agenda under “open discussion” which is an integral part of every Board meeting and other supporting data, reports, documents, etc. relevant for the subject matter are circulated among the Directors for information.
3.1 (v) Notice of Board meetings – At least seven days notice of regular meetings and reasonable notice of other meetings to be given Compliant Dates for the regular monthly Board meetings are agreed by the Directors at the start of each year and any changes to dates of scheduled meetings are decided well in advance. The Board Circulars and other documents pertaining to meetings are made available well in advance to enable the Directors to participate in deliberations.
3.1 (vi) Attendance at Board meetings Compliant All Directors attended more than two-thirds of Board meetings and no Director was absent for three or more consecutive meetings. Attendance details are given in the section on Corporate Governance.
3.1 (vii) Duties and qualifications of the Company Secretary Compliant The Company Secretary possesses the qualifications specified in Section 43 of the Banking Act.

The Company Secretary while performing the secretariat services to the Board and shareholders’ meetings, is responsible to the Board in ensuring that Board procedures and applicable rules and regulations are followed.

All new Directors are provided with the necessary documentation on Directors’ responsibilities and specific banking-related directions/policies that are required to perform their function effectively.
3.1 (viii) The Directors’ access to the Company Secretary Compliant All Directors have access to the advice and services of the Company Secretary directly.
3.1 (ix) The Company Secretary’s duty to maintain minutes of Board meetings and ensure the Directors’ access to them Compliant The Company Secretary compiles the minutes of the Board meetings which are subject to approval of the Board and
signed by the Chairman and the Secretary. Copies of minutes are provided and Directors have access to the original minute at all reasonable times.
3.1 (x) The form and contents of the minutes of Board meetings Compliant The Board minutes are drawn with reference to Board Circulars with sufficient details to indicate the decisions made by the Board of Directors.

The information used in making such decisions, the reasons and rationale of making them and each Director’s contribution, if considered material, is included in the minutes.
3.1 (xi) Independent professional advice on request for Directors to perform their duties Compliant The Board has put in place a procedure where the Directors can obtain independent professional advice, at the Bank’s expense, to perform their duties.
3.1 (xii) The Directors’ avoidance of conflicts of interest Compliant The Companies Act No. 07 of 2007 requires Directors who are directly or indirectly interested in contracts or a proposed contract with the Bank to declare the nature of such interest. The Directors have declared their interests in contracts involving the Bank and have not participated in the decision-making.
3.1 (xiii) Schedule of matters reserved for the decisions
of the Board
Compliant Schedule of matters reserved for the Board have been decided on.
3.1 (xiv) Reporting insolvency to the Director of Bank Supervision Compliant Solvency is a matter constantly monitored by the Treasury Department, Integrated Risk Management Committee, and the Board of Directors. During the year under review, the Bank remained solvent and no event has or is likely to occur that would make the Bank not able to meet its obligations.
3.1 (xv) Adequacy of capital Compliant The Bank is capitalised well above the minimum levels required by the Monetary Board in terms of the capital adequacy and minimum required capital.
3.1 (xvi) Corporate Governance Report Compliant The annual Corporate Governance Report forms an integral part of the Directors Report of the Bank’s Annual Report.
3.1 (xvii) Self-assessment of the Board of Directors Compliant The Board has a structured scheme of self-assessment which is carried out annually. The performance of the respective committees is also evaluated by the other members who are not members of the respective committees in order to ensure that they function effectively. The findings are discussed at the Board meetings and action is taken on areas identified for improvement.

The performance assessment criteria of the CEO is given in 3.5 (xi).
3.2 (i) Number of Directors Compliant The Board of Directors comprised ten Directors at the end of the year under review.
3.2 (ii) Period of service of a Director Compliant No Director has held the position of a Director of the Bank for more than nine years.
3.2 (iii) Number of Executive Directors Compliant The CEO and DCEO are the only Executive Directors on the Board.
3.2 (iv) Number of Independent Directors Compliant There are six Independent Directors on the Board.

The Board has adopted a format of a declaration to be obtained annually from Non-Executive Directors so that each Director shall independently confirm their status against specific criteria applicable to the ascertainment of independence. As such, all Non-Executive Directors have submitted their declaration in compliance with the Board decision.
3.2 (v) Alternate Directors to represent Independent Directors Compliant Persons who are appointed as Alternate Directors to existing Independent Directors of the Board are subject to the same criteria applicable to such Directors. During the year, Independent Directors did not appoint any Alternates.
3.2 (vi) The skills, experience, and track records of
Non-Executive Directors
Compliant Non-Executive Directors who held office had professional backgrounds, strong track records, and high level managerial experience in banking, business, industry, law, finance, or auditing.
3.2 (vii) Number of Non-Executive Directors required to form a quorum of Board meetings Compliant The Bank has been compliant with this rule at all times as monitored by the Company Secretary.
3.2 (viii) Disclosure of details of Directors Compliant The names and the composition of the Directors by category are disclosed in the Annual Report of the Board of Directors.
3.2 (ix) Appointments of new Directors Compliant Appointments of new Directors are formally evaluated by the Nomination and Governance Committee and recommended to the Board of Directors for approval.
3.2 (x) Appointment of a Director to fill a casual vacancy Compliant The Articles of Association of the Bank provide that the Directors appointed by the Board of Directors hold office until the following AGM at which they have to be elected by the shareholders.
3.2 (xi) Resignation or removal of a Director Compliant The details of retirement/resignation of Directors from office during the year under review are given in the Directors’ Report. No Director was removed during the year under review.

There was no matter that need to be brought to the attention of shareholders as a consequence of the resignation of
K P Cooray, since he resigned due to personal commitments.
3.2 (xii) Appointment of a Director or an employee to
another bank
Compliant No Director or employee of the Bank is a Director of another bank.
3.3 (i) Maximum age of Directors Compliant All Directors who reached the age of 70 have relinquished office.
3.3 (ii) Holding of Director’s position in more than
20 companies in all
Compliant All Directors comply with this requirement.
3.4 (i) Delegation arrangements Compliant The Board of Directors has delegated authority to the Management subject to specific criteria, limitations, safeguards, and monitoring mechanisms.
3.4 (ii) Extent of delegation Compliant The delegation of authority made by the Board is designed to facilitate efficient management of the affairs of the Bank and to aid the oversight role exercised by the Board. It is not of an extent to hinder the ability of the Board to discharge its functions. The Board retains the authority to expand, curtail, limit, or revoke such delegated authority.
3.4 (iii) Review of delegation process Compliant The delegation process is subject to periodic review by the Board in order to ensure that necessary amendments are approved to meet the requirements of the Bank. Material decisions made under delegated authority are reported to the Board for information.
3.5 (i) Separation of the roles of the Chairman and CEO Compliant The Chairman and the CEO are two separate individuals.
3.5 (ii) The Chairman to be a Non-Executive Director Compliant The Chairman is an Independent Non-Executive Director.

P M B Fernando continues to function as the Senior Director.

The Board has approved Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Senior Director.
3.5 (iii) Disclosure of relationship between the Chairman, CEO, and other Directors Compliant No relationships exist between the current Chairman, the CEO, DCEO and the other Non-Executive Directors according to the declarations made by them except being Directors of companies in the DFCC Group.
3.5 (iv) Role of the Chairman Compliant The Chairman provides leadership to the Board and ensures that the Board discharges its responsibilities effectively. The Chairman encourages members to actively participate and to raise their independent judgement on all key and appropriate issues in a timely manner.
3.5 (v) Agenda of Board meetings Compliant The agenda of each Board meeting is drawn by the Company Secretary under the direction of CEO and Chairman, and any matters relevant to the policies and operations of the Bank proposed by other Directors are included in the agenda upon approval by the Chairman.
3.5 (vi) Providing information to the Directors Compliant The Chairman ensures that all Directors are properly briefed on issues which arise at the Board meetings and ensures that they receive adequate information in a timely manner.
3.5 (vii) The Board to act in the best interest of the Bank Compliant The Chairman encourages exercise of independent judgement by the Directors on matters under consideration by the Board in order that the best interests of the Bank can be assured.
3.5 (viii) Effective contribution of Non-Executive Directors Compliant The Chairman facilitates contributions by the Non-Executive Directors in making decisions.
3.5 (ix) The Chairman not to engage in executive functions Compliant The Chairman is a Non-Executive Director and does not supervise any management personnel of the Bank directly.
3.5 (x) Communication with shareholders Compliant The Chairman has assigned the CEO to maintain a dialogue with institutional investors and to bring any matters of concern to the notice of the Board. The Corporate Communication Policy approved by the Board includes a provision for communication with shareholders.
3.5 (xi) CEO to be in charge of the management of operations and business Compliant The CEO is the Head of the Management team and is in charge of day-to-day management of the Bank’s operations and business.

At the beginning of each year, the Board discusses the business plan with the CEO and Senior Management, and agrees on the medium and short-term financial and non-financial targets to be achieved and action plans to be implemented by the Bank. Progress is monitored on an ongoing basis and the assessment of the performance of the Bank is carried out by the Board at the end of each year based on the initiatives laid down in the business plan.
3.6 (i) Four Board appointed committees Compliant The Board has appointed the four committees required by the direction. The reports on their duties, performance, and roles are published in the Annual Report.
3.6 (ii) Board Audit Committee Please refer Report of the Audit Committee.
(a) Chairman of the Committee Compliant During the year under review, the Audit Committee was chaired by an Independent Non-Executive Director who is a qualified Chartered Accountant.
(b) Composition of the members Compliant All members of the Committee are Non-Executive Directors.
(c) External Auditor Compliant The Audit Committee assists the Board in implementing a transparent process in the engagement and remuneration of the External Auditor and assists in the general oversight of financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance with laws, regulations, and Codes of Conduct. The Committee ensures that the engagement of the audit partner does not exceed five years.
(d) Independence and effectiveness of the audit process Compliant The Committee reviewed the statement issued by the External Auditor pursuant to Section 163 (3) of the Companies Act No. 07 of 2007.

The Committee discussed with the External Auditors, the nature and scope of the audit, and the effectiveness of the audit process in respect of the financial year 2020.
(e) Non-audit services Compliant A formal policy approved by the Board on engagement of the External Auditor to perform non-audit services is in place.
(f) Nature and scope of external audit Compliant The Committee met with the External Auditor to discuss and finalise the scope of the audit to ensure that it is in compliance with guidelines issued by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
(g) Review of financial information of Bank Compliant The Committee reviewed all quarterly unaudited interim financial statements and the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2020.
(h) Meetings with External Auditor Compliant The Committee met with the External Auditor on five occasions and at three of those meetings without the presence of the Management.
(i) Review of Management Letter Compliant The Committee considered the Management Letter issued by the External Auditor for the year ended 31 December 2019 and the Management responses thereto.
(j) Internal audit function Compliant The Committee reviews the adequacy of the internal audit function to ensure that it is in conformity with the Audit Committee Charter. The annual audit plan is approved by the Committee. The plan covers the scope and resource requirement. The annual performance appraisal of the Head of Internal Audit and the Senior Staff Members are reviewed by the Committee. The internal audit function is independent of the activities it audits and the findings are reported directly to the Audit Committee.
(k) Internal Audit findings Compliant The Committee reviewed the Internal Audit Reports and considered the findings, recommendations, and corrective action.
(l) Attendance of non-audit committee members Compliant Vice President, Internal Audit attends all Committee meetings. CEO, CFO, other heads of units, and the External Auditors attend meetings on invitation. During the year, the Committee met with the External Auditor on three occasions without the presence of the Executive Directors.
(m) Terms of Reference Compliant The Committee is guided by the Audit Committee Charter.
(n) Meetings Compliant During the financial year ended 31 December 2020, 12 meetings were held. Attendance of Committee members is given in the table in the section on Corporate Governance.
(o) Audit Committee activities Compliant Please refer Committee Report.
(p) Secretary Compliant Vice President, internal audit serves as the Secretary of the Committee.
(q) Process of raising issues in confidence Compliant The Board has adopted a Whistle-blowing Policy to encourage employees to communicate legitimate concerns on any illegal or unethical practices.

Arrangements are in place to ensure that all employees are duly informed of the effective use of this process.
3.6 (iii) Board Human Resources and Remuneration Committee Please refer Report of the Human Resources and Remuneration Committee.
(a) Remuneration Policy Compliant A formal Remuneration Policy approved by the Board is in place.
(b) Goals and targets for KMPs Compliant The business plan which is approved by the Board encompasses the annual goals and targets of the CEO and other KMPs.
(c) Review of performance of KMPs Compliant The Committee annually reviews the performance against the set targets of the CEO and other KMPs, and the remuneration levels of the CEO and other KMPs, while ensuring appropriate compensation levels are maintained in order to retain and motivate staff.
(d) CEO’s presence Compliant The CEO attends meetings and participates in deliberations except when matters relating to him are discussed. He also functions as the Secretary to the Committee.
3.6 (iv) Board Nomination and Governance Committee Please refer Report of the Nomination and Governance Committee.
(a) Appointment of new Directors and KMPs Compliant During the year, the Committee considered and recommended to the Board, the appointment of two new Directors and candidates to fill Key Management Positions. The Committee has documented the procedure to select/appoint Directors and other KMPs.
(b) Re-election of Directors Compliant During the year, the Committee considered and recommended to the Board, the re-election of the Directors retiring under Articles 44 and 46 (ii) while ensuring that they are fit and proper persons to hold such office.
(c) Criteria relating to appointment of KMPs Compliant The Committee evaluates the qualifications, experience and key attributes required for eligibility for appointment of KMPs.
(d) Fit and proper test Compliant The fitness and propriety of KMPs are monitored by the Committee.
(e) Succession planning Compliant The Committee evaluates the need for additional/new expertise to the Board and succession for retiring KMPs.
(f) Composition Compliant The Committee consists of three Non-Executive Directors and is chaired by an Independent Director.
3.6 (v) Board Integrated Risk Management Committee (BIRMC) Please refer Report of the Board Integrated Risk Management Committee.
(a) Composition Compliant Please refer Report of the Board Integrated Risk Management Committee.
(b) Assessment of risk Compliant The Committee has put in place a Board approved risk framework. The risk exposures of the Bank are assessed on a monthly basis through Key Risk Indicators. The risk assessment of subsidiaries, joint venture, and the associate is reviewed quarterly.
(c) Review of Adequacy of Management Committees Compliant The Committee assesses the effectiveness of all Management Committees.
(d) Controlling risks within prudent limits Compliant The Committee assesses possible risks, reviews, and takes appropriate action to mitigate such risks.
(e) Frequency of meetings Compliant The Committee met on a quarterly basis and on one other occasion .
(f) Corrective action on any management failure to identify risks Compliant Action is taken by the Committee with regard to any officer responsible for failure to identify specific risks, and appropriate corrective action is taken to remedy such situations.
(g) Submission of Risk Assessment Reports to the Board Compliant The Board is kept informed of Committee proceedings by submitting the BIRMC minutes to the Board. The required approvals are obtained through specific submissions to the Board.
(h) Compliance function Compliant The compliance function is headed by a dedicated officer identified as a KMP in terms of the Corporate Governance Direction. The Compliance Officer reports to the BIRMC. The Committee oversees the function and reviews the quarterly reports on compliance.
3.7 (i)
to (iii)
Avoidance of conflicts of interest and favourable treatment in transactions with related parties Compliant The Bank has adhered to the law as specified in the Banking Act and the Directions issued thereunder with regard to transactions with related parties. The Board ensures that no related party benefits from any favourable treatment except as indicated in 3.7 (vi).

A Related Party Transactions Review Committee has been established by the Board. The Committee Report is given in the section on Report of the Related Party Transactions Review Committee. The Board has also adopted a policy on Related Party Transactions.

The Bank has put in place a mechanism to obtain, on a quarterly basis, a confirmation from all Key Management Personnel on a structured format to assist in the process of collating related party transactions.
3.7 (iv) Accommodation granted to Directors or their close relations Compliant The Bank complies with the law as specified in the Banking Act and the Directions issued thereunder in granting accommodation to the Directors and/or their close relations.
3.7 (v) Accommodation granted to Directors prior to appointment Compliant The provisions of the Banking Act will be followed if such situations arise and public will be informed if not compliant by the specified date as he/she will cease to hold office. This situation did not arise during the year.
3.7 (vi) Avoidance of favourable treatment in granting accommodation to employees, close relations of employees and/or entities in which any employee or close relation of such employee hold substantial interest Compliant The accommodation granted to employees, close relations of employees and/or entities in which any employee or close relation of such employee holds substantial interest are subject to normal commercial terms applicable to such transactions and secured by security approved by the Monetary Board except in the case of accommodation under approved schemes, uniformly applicable to all or specific categories of employees.
3.7 (vii) Not to remit part of accommodation or interest without prior approval of Monetary Board Compliant No such situation has arisen.

Disclosure on Corporate Governance made in Terms of Section 3 (8) of the Banking Act Direction No. 11 of 2007 of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka

(i) The Board shall ensure that:
The annual audited financial statements and quarterly financial statements are prepared and published in accordance with the formats prescribed by the supervisory and regulatory authorities and applicable accounting standards, and such statements are published in the newspapers in an abridged form in Sinhala, Tamil, and English. Complied with.
(ii) The Board shall ensure that the following minimum disclosures are made in the Annual Report:
(a) A statement to the effect that the annual audited financial statements have been prepared in line with applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements, inclusive of specific disclosures. Complied with. Please refer the Statement of Directors’ Responsibility.
(b) A Report by the Board on the Bank’s internal control mechanism that confirms that the financial reporting system has been designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and that the preparation of financial statements for external purposes has been done in accordance with relevant accounting principles and regulatory requirements. Complied with. Please refer to the Directors’ Statement of Internal Control.
(c) The External Auditors’ Certification on the effectiveness of the internal control mechanism in respect of any statements prepared or published after 31 December 2008. Complied with. Please refer Assurance Report of the External Auditor.
(d) Details of Directors, including names, fitness and propriety, transactions with the Bank and the total fees/remuneration paid by the Bank. Complied with. Please refer to the Board of Directors, Annual Report of the Board of Directors on the State of Affairs of the Bank and Note 58.2 to the financial statements.
(e) Total net accommodation as defined in 3 (7) (iii) granted to each category of related parties shall also be disclosed as a percentage of the Bank’s regulatory capital

Complied with.

31 December 2020
Category of related party LKR ’000 %
Directors 1,399
Other Key Management Personnel 43,932 0.09
Close Family Members of Directors and Key
Management Personnel
941
Total net accommodation 46,272 0.09
Regulatory capital –
solo basis
51,055,165

The total net accommodation was 0.09% of the Bank’s regulatory capital on solo basis. Maximum limit determined by Directors is 25% of the Bank’s regulatory capital on solo basis.

(f) The aggregate values of remuneration paid by the Bank to its Key Management Personnel and the aggregate values of the transactions of the Bank with its Key Management Personnel, set out by broad categories such as remuneration paid, accommodation granted and deposits or investments made in the Bank. Complied with.

The aggregate value of compensation and transactions with the Bank by Key Management Personnel as defined by LKAS 24 for financial reporting purposes are given in Note 58.2 to the Financial Statements.

Further, in addition to the above, compensation, total deposits, and investments made and accommodation obtained as at 31 December 2020 by the other Key Management Personnel (officers performing executive functions referred to in Banking Act Determination No. 1 of 2019) amounted to LKR 106.29. Mn, LKR 259.78 Mn and LKR 100.66 Mn respectively.
(g) All findings of the “Factual Findings Report” of the External Auditor to be incorporated in this Report. Complied with.
(h) A report setting out details of the compliance with prudential requirements, regulations, laws and internal controls, and measures taken to rectify any material non-compliance. Complied with. See Annual Report of the Board of Directors on the State of Affairs of the Bank.
(i) A statement of the regulatory and supervisory concerns on lapses in the Bank’s risk management, or non-compliance with these Directions that have been pointed out by the Director of Bank Supervision, if so directed by the Monetary Board to be disclosed to the public, together with the measures taken by the Bank to address such concerns. The Monetary Board has not directed any disclosure
to be made.

Independent assurance

The External Auditors have performed procedures set out in Sri Lanka Related Services Practice Statement 4750 (SLRSPS 4750) issued by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka, to meet the compliance requirement of the Corporate Governance Direction. Their findings presented in their Report addressed to the Board are consistent with the matters disclosed above and did not identify any inconsistencies to those reported above by the Board.

 

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