Tense situation at Department of Emigration and Immigration

COLOMBO (News 1st) - A tense situation was reported at the Department of Emigration and Immigration premises this morning due to the trade union action launched by state employees. Tensions flared as members of the public expressed their displeasure over the department's refusal to accept passport applications under the normal service. Vehicular movement in the vicinity was also disrupted due to the protest. However, the situation was contained after it was announced that the applications will be accepted under one-day-service. Non-Executive state employees launched a trade union action today (September 23) citing salary anomalies. The Convener of the Public Service Trade Union Udeni Dissanayake noted that all state employees except for executive officers have joined the strike. Meanwhile, Co-Chairperson of the University Trade Union Joint Committee Dhammika S. Priyantha said the strike action will continue for the 14th consecutive day until authorities provide them with an acceptable solution.

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