Prelate blasts university academics' TU action

Dharma Sri Abeyratne

There is suspicion over the ongoing trade union action by university academics and whether it is an attempt to change the country's ruling authority, Kelaniya University senior lecturer Ven Abogama Wimalagana Thera said.

"This can be clearly seen when considering the political backing to the trade union action and the march by university academics," he said.

Issues relating to university academics have to be dealt by the government and not other political parties, the thera said.

He said any trade union has the right to take trade union action to safeguard rights.

"But, there are ways and means in such trade union action. As intellectuals, the university academics have their own respect and dignity. Not considering the academics' dignity, the Federation of University Teachers' Association brought the academics to the streets. They are backed by Opposition parties including the UNP," Ven Wimalagana Thera said.

The Thera said a Galle district UNP parliamentarian provided those participating in the march meals and refreshments.