Healthcare Workers to Strike Tomorrow: Allowance Cuts Spark Outrage

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Association of Health Professionals is set to commence a strike tomorrow (18) morning at 7:00 AM, in response to alleged cuts in allowances.

The strike is being led by Saman Rathnapriya, the current organizer for Kesbewa of the United National Party and former Director General of Trade Unions under former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, along with Ravi Kumudesh, who contested the general election from the United Democratic Voice Party.

Representatives of the Association, including Saman Rathnapriya and Ravi Kumudesh, held discussions with officials from the Ministry of Finance today. 

"The Health Minister facilitated this discussion. All relevant officials from the Ministry of Finance were present. However, the officials did not provide a satisfactory response to the injustices caused by the budget. Overtime allowances have been cut, holiday allowances have been cut, and promotions have been cut. We did not receive any answers regarding these allowances. Therefore, we are compelled to proceed with the planned strike actions," said Saman Ratnapriya.