Ravi Kumudesh, the convener of the Health Professionals Union Coalition, has responded to a statement made by President Anura Dissanayake in Parliament yesterday regarding the method of granting allowances demanded by health professionals. He posted his remarks on social media under the title, “Who is the President of a country mocking?”
According to Kumudesh, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake seems to have forgotten that he is the President of this country. While it may appear that he is mocking health professionals and trying to appease the cadre, anyone who has even read the Establishments Code should understand how misguided he is. Kumudesh stated that health professionals are aware of the importance of protecting the system without prioritizing financial gain because they understand the country’s economic situation. He emphasized that this sense of responsibility did not emerge only after Anura Kumara Dissanayake became President.
However, Kumudesh claimed that what lies beneath the President’s sarcastic remarks is resentment towards those challenging his decisions, shame for having to alter his original stance, and satisfaction from the bankrupt trade union cadres who justify the injustice he has inflicted on the future of health professionals.
The amendments presented by the President in response to the demands of health professionals include maintaining the value of 1/160 for overtime payments under the new salary structure. With the increase in payments, the scale will be 4/5. The current payment of Rs. 205, which is considered 1/160 of overtime, will be adjusted to Rs. 315 in 2025, Rs. 335 in 2026, and Rs. 350 in 2027. Under the 4/5 payment system, the amounts will be Rs. 290 in 2025, Rs. 305 in 2026, and Rs. 320 in 2027.
Considering that the overtime payment remained at Rs. 280 for all three years under the previous 1/200 system, Kumudesh acknowledged that this amendment could be considered a victory in their struggle. Furthermore, by agreeing to pay the full amount when the economy improves, the rate of 1/160 has been secured for the future. However, since no amendment has been announced for the 1/20 holiday allowance cut, it remains at 1/30.
The final decisions regarding the struggle will be announced in the coming week, taking into account the issuance of the relevant circulars.
In addition to the President’s speech, it is believed that the allowance paid as 1/20 of the basic salary for weekend and holiday allowances will be maintained under the new salary structure, with payments amounting to two-thirds of the total increase. Kumudesh added that by managing the limited funds available, they have achieved certain victories and secured the 1/20 allowance for the future.
He also emphasized that if the relevant circular fails to deliver justice, despite the President’s dismissive attitude toward health professionals, they will unite and continue their struggle.
