The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa

¶ 01 Hon. Member, in matters like this we should proceed not merely by rules, nor only under Act No. 688, but foremost on a humane basis. Health services are essential, and any disruption affects the public. Particularly in the Eastern Province there is a severe shortage of human resources. While we are providing physical resources, staff must be supplied in an orderly manner. In such circumstances, the public has no alternatives and must seek treatment at government hospitals, so continuous strike action causes suffering.

¶ 02 In this instance, a trade union action has occurred due to the removal of a government medical officer. Any trade union or group may submit complaints against an individual. Those must be investigated and the Ministry should decide based on the inquiry reports, not on mere pressure. If an official is removed simply because a group or person submits a complaint, that would be unjust. Therefore, I request the relevant group to approach this fairly. Do not pre-judge; allow the investigations to proceed. We will carry out the inquiries as quickly as possible.