GMOA suspends strike following talks with Health Minister

Cabinet Spokesman and Minister 

Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa 

• Suspends strike till 21 March to allow further negotiations 
• Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says basic salary for 29 medical officer categories increased, along with other allowances, annual increments — totalling an 80% rise over a 20-month period starting from April
• Urges doctors to consider economic realities and cooperate for public welfare 
• IMF Senior Mission Chief for Sri Lanka Peter Breuer highlights salary increases for civil servants via Budget after long time
• Emphasises need for fiscal responsibility to sustain essential services and support vulnerable groups

By Charumini De Silva

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) yesterday called off its countrywide strike, originally scheduled for today (5), following discussions with Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa. 

The association however stated that they postponed the planned trade union action till 21 March only to allow time for further negotiations with authorities. 

The dispute centres on reductions in doctors’ allowances outlined in the 2025 Budget, which the GMOA claims will have a significant impact on medical professionals. 

Separately, Cabinet Spokesman and Health Minister Dr. Jayatissa outlined that the basic salaries for 29 categories of medical officers have been increased, along with other allowances and annual increments, totalling an 80% rise over a 20-month period starting from next month. 

On 17 February, President and Finance Minister Anura Kumara Dissanayake presented a collective 

Rs. 345 billion bonanza for public servants via the 2025 Budget.

He proposed to increase the minimum monthly basic salary by Rs. 15,750 or from Rs. 24,250 to 

Rs. 40,000. The current ad-hoc interim allowance and special allowance will be integrated into the basic salary, giving a net increase of Rs. 8,250 in the minimum salary.

Of the total net salary increase, Rs. 5,000 and 30% of the balance amount will be paid starting from April 2025, with the remaining 70% being paid in equal portions beginning in January 2026 and January 2027.

He explained that the Government has strategically raised the basic salaries to establish a strong foundation for future salary adjustments in the healthcare industry.

The Minister also acknowledged the dedication of the medical staff amidst the worst economic crisis, recognising their efforts in managing increased workloads due to employee shortages, whilst upholding the dignity of the noble profession.

Dr. Jayatissa urged the trade associations to consider the economic realities with awareness and cooperation to work together for greater good for all citizens.

Meanwhile, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Senior Mission Chief for Sri Lanka Peter Breuer addressed concerns over potential labour unrest, acknowledging that such risks exist — but arguing that the Budget also brings some relief to civil servants. 

“For the first time in a long time, we are seeing an increase in civil service salaries,” he said in response to questions about healthcare sector trade union actions scheduled. 

Breuer also pointed to adjustments in personal income tax regime, which are expected to ease the tax burden on some earners, including public sector workers.

However, he defended the need for fiscal responsibility, noting that income tax primarily affects the top 20% of earners. 

“Sri Lanka has gone through a massive crisis, with severe consequences for the entire population. In order for the Government to continue providing essential services and supporting vulnerable groups, those who can afford to contribute must do so. This is how society can move forward together,” he pointed out.