The Hon. (Dr.) Nalinda Jayatissa - Minister of Health and Mass Media and Chief Government Whip

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, by now in April the GMOA has struck for five days. At a time of a Middle East crisis and general hardship, such strikes are unjustifiable. Their reason is that the GMOA, as a trade union, should prepare the appointment list and difficult-service list for post-intern appointments. These doctors—having obtained their degrees here or abroad and completed internship—receive their first government appointment. For first appointments, transfer boards are not applicable.

¶ 02 On 31 March a group of these doctors was summoned to the GMOA headquarters and threatened not to accept appointments; later public threats were made in the media. Out of 453 in that batch, 436 had applied by 4 April—96.25 percent. Of the remaining 17, 16 had not properly completed the RHO period after internship. Only one had completed internship and entered RHO but did not apply. Therefore, with 436 applications out of 453, there is no basis for this strike. On Saturday, after applications, the Ministry prepared the list; yesterday it was published. From this morning, post-intern doctors are being released from current stations, and from 9–11 April they can report to their new posts. That is the normal process. If anyone does not seek release, their service is deemed to continue and salaries are suspended. There is no big issue: 96.25 percent applied; yet they struck even on Sunday—baseless.

¶ 03 Some strikes affect all doctors—for example, on salary or allowances—then all may agree. But transfer boards have no say in first appointments. For subsequent transfers after four years, or for difficult areas after two years, transfer boards can be involved. For first appointment, they are not. We act according to the law. Therefore, this strike is unjust. I urge doctors to report to duty; police and the public will ensure their safety. No one can lay hands on them. Let us collectively build a good health service; do not continue a small clique’s politically motivated strike.

¶ 04 Accordingly, I will not hold the meeting offered for today. On Sunday I offered discussions: the post-intern appointment matter is over. If there are other issues beyond that, we can discuss. But not while acting in this manner; such talks serve no purpose. Therefore, no meeting will be given to the GMOA today. If the Government has erred in first appointments, the best remedy is court, not strikes. Court will hear both sides and order accordingly. Do not make the public victims. Thank you for raising this, Hon. Member.