In response to the lack of attention given to health professionals in this year’s budget proposal, health sector unions across Sri Lanka have announced a symbolic protest by wearing black belts in hospitals nationwide, starting today.
The President of the Government Pharmacists’ Association, Thushara Ranadewa, stated that if the government fails to address their concerns within a week, a series of industrial actions, including strikes, will be launched next week.
“Health professionals work 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They cannot take time off, whether it is a public holiday or late at night. By disregarding our demands in the budget, the government is pushing the already understaffed health sector into a deeper crisis,” Ranadewa said.
He warned that failure to provide immediate solutions would force health professionals to escalate their protests, potentially affecting patient care across the country.
The unions also criticized certain pro-government trade unions for failing to advocate for workers’ rights, claiming that their inaction has caused growing dissatisfaction among health workers. The Government Pharmacists’ Association, along with other unions, reaffirmed their commitment to taking collective action to protect the interests of health sector employees.
As tensions rise within the health sector, the government is expected to respond to the demands to prevent disruptions in medical services.
