The Government Medical Officers' Association (GMOA) has decided to launch an islandwide token strike based on several demands, including concerns over what it describes as the illegal transfer of medical officers.
GMOA Secretary, Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa, stated that the strike commenced at 8:00 AM today (31) across all hospitals in the country.
However, he emphasized that the trade union action will not be implemented in several critical healthcare institutions. These include:
- Maternity hospitals
- Children’s hospitals
- Apeksha Hospital Maharagama
- Specialized renal care units
- Tri-forces hospitals
National Institute of Mental Health
Dr. Sugathadasa further warned that if the government fails to respond to their concerns, the GMOA would escalate to more severe trade union actions in the future.
Meanwhile, Hansaka Wijemuni, the Deputy Minister of Health, recently commented on the situation, expressing skepticism over the possibility of doctors engaging in strike action.
“I don’t think doctors would resort to trade union action. Historically, such actions have not occurred on a significant scale. Particularly, I don’t believe this union has the capacity to carry out such actions. Even statements made in recent days did not lead to any major developments. However, if doctors have concerns, we are ready to listen,” he stated.
English (United States) ·