A total of 72 health sector trade unions commenced a one-day strike on February 1, urging the government to address their concerns.
Notably, doctors’ unions and the All Ceylon Nurses’ Union did not participate, citing government conspiracy claims.
The nurses’ union informed authorities of their demands, granting a one-month response period, with a threat of trade union action if unmet.
Earlier, on January 8, the Cabinet approved doubling the DAT allowance for government doctors.
However, on January 23, the government temporarily halved the DAT allowance, prompting protests and strikes by various health sector professionals.
