PHI union urges priority fuel access to maintain essential services

Public Health Inspectors in Sri Lanka are struggling due to the ongoing fuel crisis, as reported by the Public Health Inspectors’ Union. In a letter to the Health Minister, the union highlighted that no special fuel allocation has been made for inspectors who perform essential fieldwork. While they acknowledged the introduction of a QR-based fuel distribution system, the union pointed out that there is no way for inspectors to get fuel quickly, which has become a significant problem. They warned that this situation could delay important tasks such as controlling communicable diseases, inspecting businesses, and providing health services in schools. Furthermore, the PHI Union cautioned the Health Minister that if inspectors face pressure or disciplinary measures because of this issue, they might have to consider taking union action.