The joint token strike organized by multiple trade unions within the health sector, demanding a Rs.35,000 allowance, was officially called off at 8:00 a.m. today (Jan.12).
Over the past few days, hospital services had ground to a halt due to strikes led by paramedical and supplementary health services' trade unions.
The protests were sparked by the government's decision to increase the Disturbance, Availability, and Transport (DAT) allowance for doctors by Rs. 35,000, raising it to Rs. 70,000. The series of strikes began with a 24-hour action by professionals affiliated with supplementary medical services on Tuesday (Jan.09), followed by a 48-hour strike initiated by trade unions associated with the Paramedical Services Front (PMSF) on Wednesday (Jan.10).
The Paramedical Services' strike garnered support from various entities, including the Public Health Inspectors' Union (PHIU), the Association of Sri Lanka Ophthalmologists, the Family Health Services Union, the Government Nursing Officers' Association, and several other trade unions. In response, hospital secretaries, administration officers, and healthcare assistants also participated in a one-day token strike starting at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday (Jan.11).
As of this morning, the health sector trade union actions have ceased, allowing hospital services to return to normal operations. The decision to end the strike comes after negotiations and discussions between the trade unions and relevant authorities.
