The Cost and Want for Trade Union Action

In this modern milieu, arguably no other nation understands the strength and impact of trade union action better than we in Sri Lanka. The disruption to public activity as a result of the ‘go-slow’ at the CPC and the impending strikes by trade unions affiliated to the CEB and Water Board are mere annual occurrence for the Sri Lankan public. Lives and business must stand still as the nation fall hostage to the whim and frenzy of politically-backed trade unions.
The current crisis presents a number of critical standpoints. The trade union action stems from the non-implementation of salary revision which was due at the beginning of the year. With the government unable to meet its obligation due to insufficient funds and its fiscal policy for 2010 deferred pending elections, the unions took to action citing a lack of confidence. In a time of inflation and recession, the want for increments and that what was promised warrants fair sentiment. The issue perhaps is with its timing, as these demands come in the face of military victory, which amounts to defence costs and the price for rehabilitation and development. That compromise is common to all in both public and private sectors, alongside the challenge posed by a world in recession. That said it is the duty of government to engage and build confidence with workers. Despite the highly politicised nature of our every trade union function, every action cannot be a hidden conspiracy. A progressive dialogue is both essential and effective to overcome any trouble of administration, and that task becomes easier for a government that is victorious. President Rajapaksa assured his government would take maximum steps to provide solutions, and confidence we must inspire in our effort for development. The fruits of growth are plentiful, but that path to progress can be much easier said than done.
Sri Lanka has a penchant for protests and strike action, so much so that their sight inspires little interest unless they obstruct the routine of life and time. Unemployed graduates litter several city sites, demanding the state grant them employment in the already crowded public sector. As a nation and a people striving for development, it is imperative we study its relevance to trade union and strike action. Leaving aside the decadent political motives behind such action, time, money and energy spent on such demonstration could very well be converted into productive man hours and investment that could pave the way for new opportunity. Insular thinking and pretense should have no place in a developing people and economy. For instance, the public must discern that a government which provides free education is by no means obliged to provide gainful employment for every citizen.
Our education provides us the skill to do so on our own. What of the thousands of state-university graduates working within the private sector who are party to the protests demanding employment? Be that political frenzy, the fear of challenge or imprudence it isn’t quite clear – but a trend no doubt that wants reversing.
A surge in trade union action is often attributed to the wants of communist and extreme left parties the world-over. But the face and manner of actions and wants vary alongside development. For example, demonstrators in Europe demanded more courageous action by national governments to help the unemployed in a day. They spoke of financial markets and regulation, and suggestions to safeguard the tax-payers money. A progressive but effective approach to raise concern on national issues. Politics will always be a party to such be that left or right, but it’s the nature and manner of our actions that will compose the difference. We need to adopt a developmental mindset, and we Sri Lankans need to identify the broader needs and compromise to achieve our lofty goals of growth and expansion. Once attained, then let us examine and protest every injustice. Trade unions, employers and authorities will have to combine forces to formulate a constructive and efficient response to major social and economic challenges, not disrupt the process any further. What will warrant that mindset change?