FTA with S'pore: GMOA wants to brief President

14 May 2018 10:02 pm - 17 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) has written to President Maithripala Sirisena seeking a meeting with him before its token strike on Thursday to discuss the detrimental factors in Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed with Singapore.

GMOA Secretary Haritha Aluthge said the contents of the agreement had not been disclosed to the Cabinet and the country and that there were regulatory issues in various employment sectors without the necessary safety measures.

The GMOA condemned the Government’s decision to sign FTAs with Singapore and the Economic and Technology Co-operation Agreement (ETCA) with India outside a national policy.

Dr. Aluthge said was unfortunate that the foreign consultants preparing these agreements are deciding the country’s fate.

Meanwhile, the GMOA Executive Committee had decided to continue with its work stoppage on May 17 and an indefinite strike if the President failed to intervene.

GMOA Assistance Secretary Samantha Ananda challenged Development Strategies and International Trade Minister Malik Samarawickrama to reveal the truth about the Singapore FTA to the public. (Thilanka Kanakarathna)

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Comments - 17

Empulz Monday, 14 May 2018 10:23 PM

GMOA is only about objection not appreciation.

Saradiel Monday, 14 May 2018 10:23 PM

Here we or the GMOA go again after bit of a calm period. I was surprised that they didn't want to strike over the petrol price hike too. Is it because they get a fuel allowance based on a number of liters ! Whatever it is, hate to see poor patients suffering again.

alex Tuesday, 15 May 2018 08:35 AM

that would be the next strike agenda

Piduru Monday, 14 May 2018 10:33 PM

GMOA should take to the streets demanding the govt to reveal the content of the agreement.

Gamaya Tuesday, 15 May 2018 12:27 PM

Piduru Machang, No issue just proceed under RTI act. No secrets in SL now

Wilbert Monday, 14 May 2018 10:39 PM

Since most politicians can be purchased with foreign money we should bring in law to keep the MPs informed of every agreement .

Supiri Monday, 14 May 2018 10:42 PM

beware they might show you a fake agreement.

Fayas Monday, 14 May 2018 11:05 PM

GMOA, STICK TO YOUR OWN TURF. DONT KILL PATIENTS FOR YOUR POLITICAL AMBITIONS.

johan Tuesday, 15 May 2018 08:48 AM

The GMOA is fingering in everything. There is a President,PM and Cabinet they must look into all policy matters pertaining to the Govt. and its people.These fellows are contractors for some JO Politicians and they must fill all loopholes in the health sector only

Ram Tuesday, 15 May 2018 02:27 AM

GMOA wants to govern the country. By any miracle if they come to power nothing will move as they are all the time on strike.

Buddhist Tuesday, 15 May 2018 05:50 AM

FTA with Singapore, at least as far as the GMOA is concerned is a good one. This is because when GMOA goes on strike those foreign doctors from Singapore can work to serve the people. I think President is giving too much of hearing to these thankless GMOA leaders who studied under free education and do not want to serve the people but interested in playing politics.

LP Tuesday, 15 May 2018 08:50 AM

Very good idea, highly qualified best Singaporian doctors will serve our poor people in rural areas for pay packet given to our local doctors.

Sarath Tuesday, 15 May 2018 05:57 AM

GMOA your job is to look after patients. You cannot do that by striking! Your job is not to make govt policy! Please stick to your job and try and do it properly!

yahiya Tuesday, 15 May 2018 11:58 AM

If GMOA oppose something good for country. Good example is Ambulance service. we need some professional doctors from singapore.

Ceylon Tuesday, 15 May 2018 12:43 PM

These doctors sre wasti g time by doing politics.they are not upgrading their proffesional technology but wasting time for politics.

patriot Tuesday, 15 May 2018 01:21 PM

Instead of going on strike, they should find a way with President and Prime Minister to reverse the agreement or amend same in favour of the country, not only for doctors but all concerned parties.

AJ Wednesday, 16 May 2018 11:53 AM

GMOA is afraid they will loose their private practice if foreign professionals are allowed to practice in SL.Good to create some competition and reduce the cost of private medical care in SL.Or the government should consider medical care an essential service and some maximum cost limits to protect the consumer.

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FTA with S'pore: GMOA wants to brief President

Comments - 17

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