January 16, Colombo (LNW): The Secretary of the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA), Dr. Haritha Aluthge, strongly criticized the ongoing strike by primary and secondary level health service employees demanding an allowance that, according to him, they are not entitled to. Dr. Aluthge labeled the strike as a concerning precedent, deeming it both absurd and unethical.
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Aluthge emphasized that the dispute revolves around the increase in the Disturbance, Availability, and Transport (DAT) allowance, which is exclusively designated for doctors as the most senior officials in the health sector. He pointed out the constitutional principle of treating equals equally and stressed that there is no provision for equal treatment of unequals.
While noting that the GMOA typically refrains from intervening in actions initiated by other professional groups, Dr. Aluthge considered this situation exceptional. He questioned the basis on which primary and secondary officers in the health field are seeking a special allowance reserved for doctors.
In response to the strike, the Health Secretary has communicated in writing to the Alliance of Health Trade Unions, informing them of a scheduled discussion chaired by the Minister at 11 am on the 16th to address the workers’ grievances.
