Trade unions attached to the government owned Ceylon Petroleum Corporation have halted talks with Petroleum Industry Minister Chandima Weerakkody and want the President consulted.

The trade unions have said they will not continue talks with the Minister until President Sirisena accedes to their demands. 

Trade Unions attached the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation began a strike at midnight on Sunday (23) against a government agreement with India. 

Under the agreement the government will jointly develop oil storage tanks in Trincomalee with India.