Health Ministry decides against slashing wages

by Teena Marian 27-05-2022 | 9:57 AM

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Ministry of Health stated that it has decided to maintain the overtime and allowances of healthcare professionals in the same manner as before, considering it an essential service.

The Secretary to the Ministry of Health S.J.S Chandragupta said that according to a circular issued by the Secretary to the Treasury regarding the control of public expenditure, restrictions have been imposed on allowances including overtime pay of public servants.

However, the Secretary to the Ministry of Health has informed the Director-General of the Department of National Budget in a letter that the services of all professionals in the health sector are urgent and it is essential to maintain the continuity of the health sector and that such activities cannot be postponed or stopped.

The Secretary to the Ministry of Health stated that the Ministry of Finance has accepted the contents of the letter.

Meanwhile, the Secretary of Health stated that steps will be taken to provide overtime and allowances to health workers without any cuts with effect from April 2022.