GMOA comes under criticism from rank and file

• GMOA says strike was launched to protest against moves to undermine the transfer process and was not intended to severely disrupt services 

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

The recent strike launched by the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has come under criticism, with sources claiming it was poorly organized and failed to pressure the Government.   
A source who wished to remain anonymous said the strike could have been more effective if it had been properly planned.  “The strike could have exerted more pressure on the Government. But the authorities knew it was not well organized, so they did not give in to the demands,” the source said.   
The source added that the Government remained firm during the standoff as it believed the union action lacked strength.  

However, Dr. Prabath Sugathadasa, Secretary of the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA), said the strike was only a token action.   
He said it was launched to show protest against moves to undermine the transfer process and was not intended to severely disrupt services.  The issue comes amid an ongoing dispute between the GMOA and health authorities over post-internship appointments.   
The GMOA has alleged that junior doctors were pressured to apply for placements, claiming they were threatened with consequences such as loss of jobs, suspension of salaries and eviction from hospital quarters.   
Dr. Sugathadasa said many young doctors were placed in a difficult and uncertain situation.   
“They were under pressure and feared for their future,” he said.