Trade Unions have a role in uplifting institutions - Housing Minister

The responsibility and the duty of trade unions and their members is to commit to the future well-being of their institutions and not only to stage strikes and demonstrations, Minister, Housing and Common Amenities Ferial Ashraff said.

The Minister was addressing top level trade union leaders of the National Housing Development Authority, a Ministry release said.

Trade union leaders of Sri Lanka Nidahas Sevaka Sangamaya, Jathika Sevaka Sangamaya, National Housing Development Authority Employees Union and the Independent Employees Union participated.

The Minister added that every trade union is expected to promptly bring the shortcomings in their institutions to the notice of the management and put forward positive suggestions and views concerning the welfare and progress of the institution.

All trade union representatives observed that although discussions with the Minister take place when trade union actions are being taken the Minister has provided an opportunity to them to discuss even when there are no such complicated issues.

The Minister said when the National Housing Development Authority and the National Equipment and Machinery Organisation (NEMO) are making a concerted effort to revitalise themselves. All employees and trade unions should extend their fullest support to this effort.