The Public Service United Nurses Association has issued a firm warning to the Ministry of Health, declaring that it will not accept any attempt to alter nurses’ uniforms based on religious or cultural demands.
In a letter addressed to Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, the association highlighted that the uniform currently worn by government hospital nurses is designed according to internationally recognized standards. They stressed that such a uniform ensures professionalism, consistency, and credibility within the medical service, and should not be compromised for cultural or religious preferences.
The controversy began after a statement reportedly made by a government minister suggested that nurses’ uniforms could be modified to accommodate the cultural practices of certain religious groups. The association strongly rejected this notion, stating that introducing variations based on religion would undermine the unity and identity of the nursing profession.
“We do not agree with changing the uniforms prepared according to accepted traditions to suit religious or cultural preferences,” the association said, warning that if such proposals are made, the matter must first be discussed with nursing representatives before any final decision is taken.
Instead of focusing on altering uniforms, the association emphasized that the government should prioritize resolving the pressing challenges faced by the healthcare sector. They pointed to shortages of resources, obstacles that hinder nurses from practicing their full scope of duties, and gaps in infrastructure that limit the efficiency of the national nursing service.
The letter concludes with a reminder that professional standards must be preserved, and decisions that could weaken the neutrality and effectiveness of healthcare delivery should not be taken lightly. Nurses, it said, stand firm in their commitment to protect the integrity of their profession.
