Posted by Editor on June 10, 2024 – 3:31 pm
The Sri Lanka Railway Locomotive Operating Engineers have officially called off their strike action, following successful discussions with the Minister of Transport, Bandula Gunawardena.
The strike, which began at midnight on Thursday (June 6), was initiated by the Locomotive Operating Engineers’ Union of Sri Lanka Railways. The union’s main grievances included delays in second-class promotions for locomotive drivers and several other related issues.
Responding to the union’s allegations, the Department of Railways’ administrative officials asserted that they had taken all possible measures to resolve the issues.
At a press conference this morning (June 10), Mrs. Kusalani de Silva, the Additional General Manager (Administration) of the Department of Railways, highlighted the department’s efforts in addressing the union’s concerns.
Mrs. Kusalani de Silva revealed that by the day the strike commenced, the Department of Railways had issued 57 promotion letters to locomotive engineers, covering more than 50% of the affected employees.
She added that the total number of issued promotion letters had since increased to 70. The remaining 13 promotions were delayed due to the affected employees needing to complete internal bar tests, demonstrate second-language proficiency, and resolve other disciplinary proceedings.
To expedite the promotion process, Mrs. de Silva announced that the Railways Department would conduct a special department bar test within a month. This measure aims to enable those who have not yet completed the necessary exams to do so promptly, thereby addressing one of the key issues raised by the union.
The resolution of the strike comes as a relief to many commuters who rely on the railway system for their daily transportation needs.
The successful negotiation between the union and the Transport Ministry demonstrates the importance of dialogue and cooperation in resolving labor disputes.
As the railway services resume normal operations, it is hoped that the continued efforts to address the remaining issues will foster a more harmonious working environment for the locomotive engineers and ensure the efficient functioning of Sri Lanka’s rail transport system.
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