Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has clarified the government’s proposed salary and allowance increases for healthcare professionals, who are set to launch trade union action tomorrow (6). The minister detailed a series of significant increments aimed at addressing financial concerns within the sector.
Salary Increases
- Grade 3: Basic salary increases from Rs. 32,800 to Rs. 54,120 (+Rs. 20,040). Higher brackets will also see increases up to Rs. 62,120.
- Grade 2: Salary hikes range from Rs. 26,120 to Rs. 31,420, with the highest bracket reaching Rs. 75,210.
- Grade 1: Salaries will rise from Rs. 44,520 to Rs. 76,530 (+Rs. 32,010), with the highest bracket increasing to Rs. 101,910.
Overtime Pay Adjustments
- Grade 3: Rs. 210/hr → Rs. 285/hr (+Rs. 75)
- Grade 2: Rs. 250/hr → Rs. 340/hr (+Rs. 90)
- Grade 1: Rs. 300/hr → Rs. 415/hr (+Rs. 115)
- Super Grade: Rs. 345/hr → Rs. 495/hr (+Rs. 150)
- Special Grade: Rs. 390/hr → Rs. 540/hr (+Rs. 150)
Holiday Allowances
- Grade 3: Rs. 1,604 → Rs. 1,804 (+Rs. 200)
- Grade 2: Rs. 1,850 → Rs. 2,110 (+Rs. 260)
- Grade 1: Rs. 2,026 → Rs. 2,351 (+Rs. 325)
- Super Grade: Rs. 2,629 → Rs. 3,037 (+Rs. 408)
Annual Salary Increments
- Grade 3: Rs. 445 → Rs. 800
- Grade 2: Rs. 660 → Rs. 1,190
- Grade 1: Rs. 730 → Rs. 1,320
- Super Grade: Rs. 750 → Rs. 1,350
Tax Reforms
The government will exempt Grade 3 and Grade 2 professionals from income tax, while Grade 1 and higher will receive tax relief, especially for salaries between Rs. 150,000 and Rs. 200,000.
Government’s Stand on Industrial Action
Dr. Jayatissa emphasized that these salary adjustments are part of a comprehensive package to support healthcare workers. He urged professionals to continue their duties and assured them of the government’s willingness to engage in further discussions.
He also cautioned against misinformation and requested healthcare professionals to avoid industrial action, highlighting their critical role in the nation’s healthcare system.
