Plantation agitations based on political agendas

Shirley WIJESINGHE

The agitations carried out by so-called trade unions of plantation workers after the wage hike was granted, are based on political agendas of Opposition political parties, Joint Plantation Trade Union Centre President S. Ramanadan told the Daily News yesterday.

He added that more than 80 percent of the total plantation workers is satisfied with the new wage hike and only few unions misled by rival political elements have expressed dissatisfaction.

The majority is happy with the new wage hike incorporated in the new collective agreement.

Commenting on the arrears to be received, Ramanadan said 50 percent of the total arrears will be paid before the Deepawali festival and the balance next December and January in two installments.