GMOA Denies Link Between Trade Union Action and Trincomalee Newborn Death

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has denied any connection between its ongoing trade union activities and the death of a newborn during a delivery at Trincomalee District General Hospital. GMOA Vice President, Specialist Doctor Chandika Epitakaduwa, stated at a media briefing on May 11 that obstetric care is classified as an emergency medical service. He emphasized that doctors do not withdraw from emergency duties during trade union action. Dr. Epitakaduwa also suggested that there are attempts by certain parties to unfairly attribute blame to the association regarding the incident.