Sri Lanka, Feb. 2 -- The strike launched yesterday by 72 Trade Unions (TUs) belonging to the Health Sector is unfair and unjustified on all accounts. The TUs comprising para-medics and minor staff are demanding the Rs.35,000 Disturbance, Availability and Transport (DAT) allowance paid to doctors.

This is difficult to comprehend. The para-medics are never on emergency calls as are the doctors and there is no justification for receiving this allowance. This decision has been made after a specific study including responsibilities, educational qualifications and the nature of work. Besides, there is a big difference between the education levels of doctors and paramedics. One commentator has said that it is similar to a corporal demanding the...