Karu Jayasuriya holds talks with railway officials

Colombo, July 12 -  Karu Jayasuriya, Chairman of the National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ), played a pivotal role in facilitating the resolution of the recent railway station masters' strike through constructive dialogue among key stakeholders, NMSJ said in a press release.

The strike, initiated by the Sri Lanka Railway Station Masters' Union (SLRSMU), had disrupted railway operations for two days, highlighting unresolved grievances within the sector. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Jayasuriya invited a delegation including SLRSMU President Sumedha Somaratne, Transport and Highways Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardena, and State Minister of Transport Lasantha Alagiyawanna to his residence in Colombo on the evening of 11 July.

During the meeting, all parties engaged in respectful and inclusive discussions aimed at finding a viable solution that would address the concerns raised by the station masters.

The collaborative effort bore fruit later that night as an agreement was reached, leading to the immediate cessation of the strike.

The NMSJ expressed its appreciation for the commitment shown by all stakeholders involved in resolving the dispute amicably. "We extend our sincere gratitude to all parties who approached the resolution of the railway trade union strike with respect and dignity," stated Sunil Jayasekara, General Secretary of the NMSJ.