The Health Professionals Federation has launched a symbolic strike today (18) in protest against the government’s decision to cut allowances for paramedical professionals through its maiden budget.
According to the Health Professionals Federation, the strike will take place in all hospitals across the country, starting at 7 a.m. today.
A total of 18 trade unions have pledged their support for the strike, including seven unions from the Joint Federation of Paramedical Professionals and 11 unions from the Joint Front of Paramedical Services.
Co-Convenor of the Health Professionals Federation, Upul Rohana, stated that the strike was initiated following the failure of discussions held yesterday (17) with officials from the Ministry of Finance regarding their demands.
However, Co-Convenor of the Joint Federation of Paramedical Professionals, Chalith Amaradiwakara, criticized the move, calling it unjustified.
Meanwhile, the Joint Postal Trade Union Front announced that the postal sector strike, which began the day before yesterday, will continue today as well.
Co-Convenor of the postal trade unions, Chinthaka Bandara, revealed that over one million letters and parcels have accumulated in post offices due to the ongoing strike.
However, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Postal Services Association, Jagath Mahinda, claimed that the strike has been largely unsuccessful.
