Officers from the Laboratory Scientist Service and the Physical Therapy Service, both part of the Paramedical Service, have commenced a strike from 8:00 a.m. today (27), citing five key demands. Among these are concerns over injustices faced by allied health graduates and unresolved issues related to promotions.
Chanaka Dharmawickrama, General Secretary of the Joint Federation of Paramedical Professions, emphasized that the strike will continue indefinitely if the authorities fail to address their grievances. He also noted that other trade unions within the Paramedical Service are preparing to extend their support for the strike in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has issued a warning, demanding the immediate issuance of a correct circular concerning the reduction of additional duties and holiday allowances for doctors.
GMOA Media Spokesperson, Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe, stated that if the matter is not resolved within a week, the association will resort to trade union action.
“It has been nearly two months since the President made his decision. Although the circular from the Ministry of Public Administration has been issued and the new salary structure has been effective since April 1, doctors have not received the corresponding additional allowances with their April salaries. Now, May is also nearing its end, and even then, doctors are not receiving the compensation they rightfully deserve. This is a serious issue. If the circular is not amended within the next week, we will be compelled to take necessary action,” Dr. Wijesinghe warned.
