Health strike continues for 8th day despite interim order

COLOMBO (News 1st): The issuance of medicines, laboratory and radiology services at Government Hospitals will not be carried out on Monday (Feb. 14) as well, due to the ongoing strike action of the Health Trade Unions. The health workers are continuing their island-wide trade union action for the 8th consecutive day; the strike was launched citing several issues including salary anomalies. As a result of the strike action, various health services including the vaccinations and services offered by the Public Health Inspectors (PHIs) are no longer available. The trade union action is being carried out against the backdrop of the Colombo District Court issuing an interim order to suspend the strike immediately. According to News 1st correspondents, patients have been severely inconvenienced due to the strike action.