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by Lalin Fernandopulle

Railways and Transport, Petroleum and Petroleum Resource Development Minister A. H. M. Fowzie criticised the State sector trade union action last Thursday saying that it was an unfair and unreasonable step taken by the trade unions. He said their intention to sabotage the smooth functioning of State institutions could not be accepted.

The strike brought all State institutions throughout the island to an abrupt halt causing severe strain on the public. "Though Trade Unions called off the strike by Thursday mid night, even on Friday morning employees had not reported to work," the Minister said.

The Minister called for explanation from the Railway General Manager but to no avail activities at the Railways were not normal.

He said commuters had complained that railway guards had not turned up for duty even late on Friday morning.

This sort of action reflects irresponsibility on the part of State sector employees who are called to serve the public with greater commitment and dedication, Minister said.

The Minister said that his ministry planned to provide a better transport service with more buses and trains operating on a regular basis. Members of over 200 State Sector Trade Unions participating in the strike demanded from the Government to abolish the 2006/01 circular on salary anomalies.

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