GMOA readies for next step after failed talks with authorities

The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) which launched a token strike this week said its General Committee comprising unions of all state hospitals would meet soon to decide on its next course of action to win salary demands.

The GMOA said the token strike would mark the first in a series of strikes if the government failed to address its de-

The GMOA wants an increase in basic salaries for doctors and an increase in the wage ratio from 1:4 to 1:12

mands in the 2013 budget.

The union met with Health Ministry Secretary Nihal Jayatileka and Treasury Secretary P.B Jayasundara on the day of the token strike to discuss their grievances. However GMOA member Dr. Nalinda Herath said the parties did not reach any agreement.

“The GMOA General Committee would meet soon and we will decide on our next course of action depending on the government’s response to our demands,” Dr. Herath said.

The GMOA wants an increase in basic salaries for doctors and an increase in the wage ratio from 1:4 to 1:12 which they say is the accepted salary ratio for employees in India and most other countries.

The association is also demanding a transport allowance to aid doctors who are constantly on call and work late hours. The GMOA said government doctors should be entitled to perks enjoyed by other state employees such as a state vehicle, fuel allowance, maintenance allowance and a driver.