A strike action which was launched by the non-academic staff of universities continued on Thursday July 14. Demonstrating on Thursday morning was the staff attached to the University of Peradeniya.

The main aim of the trade union action was to call on government authorities to add a Rs 2,500 allowance that is currently enjoyed by the protesters to their basic salary. The protesters also cited several other issues for their trade union action including the decision to do away with the language proficiency allowance.

According to the Co-Chairman of the Inter University Employees’ Trade Union Federation Edward Malwattage, there are around 13,000 ‘restless’ non-academic staff at universities.

“If this demonstration does not bring about a result we have decided to engage in continuous trade union action starting from the 27th” said Edward Malwattage, Co-Chairman – the Inter University Employees’ Trade Union Federation.