72 trade unions representing non-medical health services initiated a continuous strike at 6:30 am today (01), demanding the Disturbance, Availability, and Transport (DAT) allowance—a benefit previously exclusive to doctors. The strike has significantly impacted hospital services, prompting a call to the armed forces for support.
Despite the disruption caused by the strike, the All Ceylon Nurses Association, has chosen not to participate in the industrial action.
The ongoing strike has resulted in considerable difficulties for patients, compelling the intervention of the armed forces to alleviate the challenges faced by healthcare facilities. The trade unions are mobilizing the armed forces to support and maintain essential hospital services during this period of industrial unrest.
