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Last updated: 08 August, 2011 - Published 13:37 GMT
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Call to publish report on FTZ clash
Retd justice Mahanama Tilakaratne handing over the report to the president (photo: Nalin Hewapathirana)
Unions say the government was responsible for the violence in FTZ
Trade union leaders representing workers of the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) has called on the authorities to publish the report of the presidential commission that investigated recent unrest in the FTZ.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa appointed one-man commission chaired by retired judge Mahanama Thilakaratne after a young FTZ worker was shot dead by the police.

The killing of Roshen Shanaka led to further protests by the FTZ workers who first took to the streets against a controversial private sector pension scheme.

The pensions bill was later withdrawn following strong opposition by workers.

'Government responsible'

In an unprecedented move, then police chief Mahinda Balasuriya handed over his resignation after the incident.

The commission handed over it's report to the president on Friday.

 I clearly pointed out with evidence those responsible for the violence while testifying before the commission
Anton Marcus, JTUA

Anton Marcus of Joint Trade Union Alliance (JTUA) told BBC Sandeshaya that he also testified before the commission.

"I clearly pointed out with evidence those responsible for the violence while testifying before the commission," he said.

"I hope the evidence we supplied are also in the commission's report."

The trade unions are, however, still calling for an independent investigation into the violence that led to the killing of Roshen Shanaka.

"Any independent investigation will find the government responsible," added Anton Marcus.

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