The Minister made these remarks today (27) while addressing the Cabinet decisions media briefing held at the Government Information Department.
Dr. Jayatissa called on all doctors not to be drawn into strike actions and trade union activities allegedly being driven by a very small group within the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) for various motives.
He pointed out that a basic salary increase has been granted this month to doctors as well as to all public sector employees, noting that the government has spent Rs. 220 billion this year solely on basic salary increases. He further stated that Rs. 110 billion was spent for salary increments in 2025, while Rs. 330 billion is expected to be spent next year. The Minister emphasized that these figures represent additional expenditure for salary increases, not the total salary bill.
The Cabinet Spokesperson stressed that these salary revisions are being implemented in line with the country’s economic capacity and as part of the broader effort to rebuild the nation. He also noted that funds for national recovery are being mobilized through the “Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund,” with contributions coming from the public sector, private sector, the general public, schoolchildren, plantation community members, and other stakeholders. Assistance from several foreign countries is also being received.
In this context, Dr. Jayatissa said it is neither fair nor justifiable to the country if strikes are carried out by placing patients and fellow doctors’ lives at risk in an attempt to embarrass the government during such a critical period.
