Sri Lanka: Angry unions threaten strikes

By Nabeela Hussain | Daily Mirror
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Several trade unions warned yesterday they would be compelled to take tough action if the government did not give both the public and private sector workers a salary increment.

The National Trade Union Centre (NTUC) and the Trade Union Confederation (TUC) said they would resort to strike action while the United National Party (UNP) -- affiliated Jathika Sevaka Sangamaya also said it would follow suit.

“The salary increment of Rs.2,500 is not what we asked for but something the government promised,” TUC President Saman Rathnapriya said. He said the promise of Rs.2,500 was insufficient but would be the first step towards providing a much needed bigger salary increment.

The NTUC said a salary increment of Rs.9,000 was expected from the government. “We have asked the government to give us a salary increment and we will strike if we do not receive it,” NTUC General Secretary Samantha Koralearachchi said.

He said they had the support of trade unions that came under its NTUC umbrella with another 20 unions in various sectors were supporting it.

“The government is speaking about a development budget, but how can there be development when the people have to strain under the cost of living?” he questioned.

Mr. Koralearachchi said the NTUC had carried out awareness programmes and protest campaigns at grassroots level. “We are ready to take the next big step,” he said.

© Daily Mirror