(PICTURES) Trade Unions protest against LNG deal; minor traffic congestion reported

COLOMBO (News 1st); A total of 35 trade unions were seen gathered in front of the CEB headquarters opposing the Government's decision to sell 40% of the shares to New Fortress Energy Inc., and against the handover of the country's LNG monopoly to the US company.

However, although all the leave of the employees was canceled, the united trade union alliance has ignored the relevant circular and decided to participate in the protest.

News 1st correspondent on site Naveksha Gunasekara also reported that minor traffic congestion was reported in the area, during the lunch hour protest.

The employees of Colombo Port also engaged in protests at the clock tower opposite the Port against the handover of shares to the American company New Fortress Energy Inc., today (03).

Previously, News 1st inquired with Minister of Power, Gamini Lokuge and he said all trade unions of the CEB excluding the JVP trade unions will be on duty today adding that there will NO power failures today.

He said "A minor group will stage protests. But only a very limited group will join the protests from the Electricity, Ports and Petroleum services."

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), M.M.C. Ferdinando told a media briefing in Colombo yesterday (02) that it would be a serious breach of discipline if employees of the CEB went on a strike on Wednesday (3) and Thursday (4).