March 03, Colombo (LNW): The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has issued a stern warning, declaring that it will initiate a nationwide strike from March 5, 2025, if the government fails to address the reduction in additional duty and holiday allowances for medical officers working in the public sector.
GMOA Secretary Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa expressed deep concern over the impact of the 2025 national budget, which has significantly reduced these crucial allowances.
The reduction, he stated, has left medical officers dissatisfied, as the allowances are an essential part of their overall compensation.
“The government must take immediate steps to reinstate the additional duty and holiday allowances for doctors,” Dr. Sugathadasa stated. “Should there be no positive response or resolution by March 6, the GMOA will be compelled to take decisive action starting from March 7.“
The medical body has warned that if the issue is not resolved, the country’s health services could face severe disruptions, affecting the delivery of care across hospitals and medical facilities nationwide.
