President's Media Division responds to strikes by Trade Unions

COLOMBO (News 1st); The President's Media Division operating from the Sri Lankan President's Office released a series of statements on the nation-wide strikes that were launched on Wednesday (15).

The statements by the PMD are as follows:

- The Railway Department GM confirmed that as a result of the committed service of Railway employees, 20 trains had operated by 8.00 this morning for the convenience of commuters despite the union action.

- CPC/CPSTL Chairman Mr. M.U. Mohamed confirmed that over 300 loads of 6,600L of Petrol & Diesel have been processed so far to maintain normal operations.

- The CEB Shroff & Cashier Union has notified the CEB-GM that they would not engage in any union action & have pledged their support to strengthen the country's economy.

- People’s Bank Acting CEO/GM Mr. Clive Fonseka confirmed that 272 Branches out of the 340 are fully functional with attendance reported at over 75% as at 10.30 AM today.

- BOC General Manager Mr. Russel Fonseka confirmed that 265 branches including the Head Office & all divisions are operating, as usual, to serve the public with banking services.

- Sri Lanka Transport Board Chairman Lalith de Alwis confirmed that all 107 depots are operating according to the regular timetable as of 11.00 AM today. Out of 08 unions, 07 are fully cooperative, excluding the JVP Union.

The Professionals Trade Union Collective had declared a nation-wide day of strikes and protests.

Government, Semi-Government and Private Trade Unions are geared up to support the strikes.

Government Medical Officers, Specialist Doctors, University Teachers, Faculty of Medicine Teachers, CEB Engineers, Bankers, Petroleum Workers, Water Supply Workers, Road Development Officers, Education Administrative Officers, Surveyors, Inland Revenue Officers are among the 40 Trade Unions that will support this move.

Their main demand is to amend the unjust tax policy implemented by the government.

The PAYE tax between 6% to 36% imposed on monthly earnings over Rs. 100,000/- had placed professionals across many sectors in a tough position.

Public, Semi-Public and Private Trade Unions have joined their cause with several more demands.

These include a demand to reduce bank interest rates, provide a Cost of Living Allowance of Rs. 20,000/-, Reduce the Electricity Tariff, and suspend attempts to slash wages and pension payments.

At the same time, School Teachers, Principals, Nurses, Health Services, Postal Services, Public Management Services, Field Officers among others have decided to extend their support to the strike.