• Workers will attend from all over to demonstrate
• Minister assures all steps taken for uninterrupted power supply

By Kelum Bandara

Power restoration in the event of a major breakdown will be delayed because a large number of electricity workers will demonstrate along with others in Colombo today against the deal with New Fortress Energy, a trade union leader said.

Convener of the CEB Employees ‘Union Ranjan Jayalal told Daily Mirror an alliance of trade unions had organised the demonstration to protest the government’s move for alienation of 40 per cent shares of Yugadanavi power plant to New Fortress Energy of the United States in addition to an agreement with it to supply LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas).

Mr. Jayalal said workers from all over the country would participate in the protest to be staged in front of CEB head office in Colombo.

“We won’t interrupt the power supply. But, if there is a major disruption to the power supply due to tree falls or anything similar to that, it may take a longer time to restore it. Otherwise, there won’t be any impact,” he said. 
However, Power Minister Gamini Lokuge said 75 per cent of CEB employees would report to duty and all steps had been taken to ensure interrupted power supply. 

“It is only the JVP-affiliated trade unions that call for this action. We held talks with other trade unions. They are ready to work,” he said. 

• Workers from all over the country would participate in the protest to be staged in front of CEB head office in Colombo