Hospital services in dire straits as strike enters second day

• Sri Lanka Army deploys troops at government hospitals to support operational activities

By Sheain Fernandopulle

The healthcare services across the country were paralyzed, inconveniencing patients as trade unions within the health sector have decided to continue the island-wide strike  
The strike, which commenced from 6.30 a.m. yesterday (13) was launched following unsuccessful discussions with officials from the Finance Ministry.  

 The focal point of the strike action is the prolonged and contentious disagreement surrounding the Disturbance, Availability and Transport (DAT) allowance, according to the President of the Federation of Health Professionals Ravi Kumudesh.  

Despite the representatives of the trade unions having a crucial discussion with the Finance Ministry officials, neither of the parties has reached a consensus  The health workers have so far resorted to three trade union actions this year over the failure to provide an allowance similar to the DAT allowance granted to the doctors.