The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) yesterday said that it would launch a countrywide strike in all government hospitals from 8 am today (25), citing alleged corruption and arbitrary practices in the handling of medical officer transfers.
GMOA media spokesperson Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe told The Island that the strike was planned to press several demands, including reforms to the transfer process for government doctors. He added that if the President or Health Minister failed to address the concerns, his union would proceed with the industrial action as planned.
GMOA secretary Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa said the strike had been triggered by the conduct of two Deputy Directors General in temporary positions and a Director in charge of Medical Services, who allegedly violated the Health Minister’s instructions and disregarded the established procedures of the Medical Officers’ Transfer Board.
Dr. Sugathadasa warned that the disruption could lead to the crippling of all government hospitals, causing inconvenience to patients.
by Chaminda Silva 