Pharmacists Set for One-Day Strike Amid Policy Disputes
The Society of Government Pharmacists in Sri Lanka has announced a one-day trade union action scheduled for Monday, August 31, in response to ongoing disputes over their compensation. This decision comes after a series of unresolved issues surrounding “additional service allowances” that pharmacists have been fighting to have formally recognized.
Policy Changes Under Scrutiny
Ajith P. Thilakarathna, President of the Association, highlighted a recent circular issued by the Health Secretary that attempted to rebrand existing overtime allowances as “additional service allowances.” However, this decision was abruptly reversed on August 29, 2026, without any justifiable reasoning. It is alleged that the Health Ministry may have been influenced by pressure from the medical services sector, leading to growing frustration among pharmacists.
Strike Justification and Exemptions
Despite several attempts to engage the authorities for a resolution, the pharmacists claim their efforts have been met with inaction, prompting the decision to proceed with the one-day strike. The Association has stressed its intention to apply pressure until the government reinstates the original circular that recognizes these allowances.
In an effort to minimize public disruption, the pharmacists have announced that maternity and children’s hospitals, as well as institutions specializing in cancer care and mental health, will be exempt from the strike. Furthermore, contingency plans are in place to ensure emergency and essential services continue operational at all other facilities, permitting heads of institutions to coordinate with chief pharmacists.
Public Notification and Response
Thilakarathna reiterated the importance of notifying relevant parties to mitigate any inconvenience to the public resulting from the strike. The pharmacists are urging the Health Ministry to address their concerns seriously, as this action reflects a larger discontent within the healthcare sector regarding compensation and working conditions.
As the day approaches, the potential impact of the strike raises concerns about the availability of services in an already strained healthcare system, and the pharmacists remain hopeful for a timely resolution to their demands.
The society’s commitment to protecting patient care while advocating for their rights highlights the delicate balance between union action and public health needs, setting the stage for what could be a significant moment in Sri Lanka’s healthcare landscape.