10.7.2008
The
one day token strike called by the JVP and the main opposition
party UNP with the backing of pro-LTTE groups such as
TNA and Ceylon Tamil Teachers' Union has proved to have
been a complete flop with no impact on the normal functioning
of Government institutes and services.
General
Manager, Railways, Dr. Lalithasiri Gunaruwan said that
all train services are running as scheduled but added
that some parties have been engaged in placing logs across
the railway track in Beruwala.
Black
oil had been thrown against two trains in Polgahawela
in the north central area, he said.
The
Chairman of the Sri Lanka Transportation Board speaking
to www.news.lk said that 240 more buses were operating
today compared to yesterday. He also added that there
have been minor incidents reported with the involvement
not of trade union members but rival political parties
to sabotage the service.
Earlier
this week all influential trade unions in the Railways
Department and the Sri Lanka Transport Board informed
the Minister of Transpotation verbally that they will
not participate in this unreasonable strike, not because
the working class is bereft of any problems, but because
issues of national security and combating terrorism supersede
any such problem.
A senior port official and shipping line representatives
said work at the Colombo port was progressing as on other
days. The duty officer of the main international airport
in Katunayake said flights were operating normally.
Colombo's hospital chief Hector Weerasinghe said patients
were being admitted and services were being provided without
disruption.
The JVP has failed to secure the support of unions attached
to the Elecricity Board and Water Board, a big blow to
the boast of crippling government today. Also, 14 trade
unions in the estate sector had decided not to participate
in the strike.
Courtesy
- Government Information