After-hours care for injured wildlife has been disrupted by a work-to-rule campaign as veterinarians press demands over senior posts, overtime allowances and support staff.
Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Environment has decided to seek assistance from veterinary officers attached to the country’s Tri-Forces to maintain emergency wildlife treatment services during ongoing trade union action by wildlife veterinarians.
The ministry said the move followed the start of a work-to-rule campaign by wildlife veterinary officers, which has created practical difficulties in providing emergency care for injured and vulnerable wild animals outside normal working hours, including on weekends and public holidays.
The trade union action is reportedly linked to several longstanding issues that have remained unresolved for more than a decade.
Among the officers’ main demands are the creation of five Grade I positions within the service, an additional allowance for extended working hours and the establishment of a dedicated supporting staff structure.
The ministry said discussions over the concerns were continuing and stressed that efforts had been made to address the demands raised by wildlife veterinary officers.
Source: News 1st
