Chief Secretary of the Ceylon Teachers’ Union Joseph Stalin says trade union action launched by teacher and principal trade unions will continue in order to win their demands.
Speaking during a media briefing in Colombo today, Stalin said teachers and principals were hopeful that their issues will be resolved at discussions held yesterday under the patronage of the Prime Minister and six Ministers, adding however the discussion was not fruitful.
Today marks the 17th day of the union action.
Stalin said the government attempted to disrupt union action by delaying providing a solution by another week.
He said various statements were made pertaining to the Cabinet decision on the matter, with the aim of misleading teachers and principals.
The Chief Secretary said under these circumstances they have no alternative but to continue trade union action.
Stalin said a statement was issued by the Prime Minister’s Media Division claiming their grievances will be addressed by next Monday and requested them to end union action.
He said they have a positive mindset towards a solution as claimed by the Prime Minister’s statement adding however trade union action will continue.
Stalin accused certain Ministers of attempting to create a negative public opinion against trade union action.
He said the aim of the protest is to show the depth of issues faced by teachers.
Stalin added State Minister Channa Jayasumana claimed trade unions are attempting to create a coronavirus cluster.
The Chief Secretary said even though various other protests including farmer’s protests, fishermen’s protests and political protests are organised, the government is targeting teachers’ and principals’ protests instead of solving issues.
He said they have made plans to inform parents regarding their grievances adding parents in the Maho Education Zone are holding a protest supporting their struggle.
He added students, past pupils and parents have also called for resolutions for the trade union demands.
