Eighteen health unions affiliated to the nursing and paramedical Services have commenced a continuous strike from this morning (07).

The health unions involved in the trade union action have announced that the strike will be launched from 7 am today based on several demands including wage anomalies.

The strike will not involve cancer hospitals, children's hospitals, maternity hospitals and kidney hospitals, but will not affect emergency and life support services.

Speaking at a press conference today, President of the PHI Union Upul Rohana said they would engage in emergency duties related to COVID19 on a voluntary basis.

"We understand the severity of the situation and the difficulties faced by the public. We have held a number of discussions with the government seeking to resolve these issues. But, there was no progress in the discussions. Therefore, it is now the responsibility of the government to give proper solutions to our grievances," Rohana added.