Protest by Health Trade Unions cripple health services; strike continues as talks failed

The ongoing strike launched by the Health Sector trade unions crippled the health services across the country as thousands of people returned empty-handed without being access health services. 

The Unions staged a protest march from Town Hall to Health Ministry today. They sat down in front of the Ministry demanding authorities to resolve their grievances including salary anomalies.

Later a discussion was held with the Health Minister,  but no solution was reached and they have decided to continue with the strike. 

The Unions which represents Public Health Inspectors (PHI) and Nurses demand authorities to eliminate disparities in the salary scheme structure- similar to what Teachers protest achieved recently through months longs protest. 

As a result of the protest march, heavy traffic congestion was reported along Deans road- opposite the Health  Ministry. 

The Unions vowed that they will continue their protest until their demands are met since past token strikes failed to achieve anything significant. Pix by Akila Jayawardena