SLTB Trade Unions Launch Strike Against New Private–State Bus Timetable

COLOMBO (News 1st); Several trade unions of the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) launched an islandwide trade union action from midnight yesterday.

The trade union action is being carried out against the implementation of the new private–state integrated timetable.

Convenor of the Samagi United Trade Union Force, Ananda Palitha, stated that through this program the government is attempting to dismantle the Sri Lanka Transport Board.

He further said that seven out of the eight SLTB trade unions have joined the union action.

When inquired by News 1st, Deputy Minister of Transport Dr. Prasanna Gunasena said that the trade union action has been launched without any justifiable grounds, with the sole intention of inconveniencing the government.

The Deputy Minister added that all SLTB drivers have been informed to report for duty, and measures will be taken to suspend those who fail to do so and instead participate in the trade union action.