Sri Lanka Transport Minister condemns railway strike as a despotic trade union action

Transport Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva stressed that he condemns the train strike which was started last Wednesday (8) without a notification.

The Minister pointed out that anyone has the right to take trade union action but they should act in such a way not to inconvenience the public.

He further said the Ministry of Transport has never rejected the demands presented by the Railway trade unions and the cabinet of ministers will hold extensive discussions on how best to fulfill their demands.

However, it will take some time to resolve these issues, the Minister said requesting the trade union leaders not to resort to unjustifiable trade union action in the meantime.

The Minister also requested the trade union leaders to consider the transport facilities for the students who are taking the GCE Advanced Level Examination at present and assist the government to resolve their issues through discussions.

Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Transport Board has deployed additional 2000 buses to avoid difficulties to the commuters while measures have been taken to run eight trains on the main lines by this evening and a tanker train to deliver fuel to the airport, the Minister said.

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