Minister Nalinda Jayatissa states that the government has not yet made any decision regarding the modification of nursing officers’ uniforms.

Addressing Parliament today (20), the Minister noted that although MP M.L.A.M. Hisbullah claims a Private Member’s Motion submitted on 7 August 1992 was approved, the Ministry possesses no documentation confirming such approval regarding nursing uniforms.

Minister Jayatissa pointed out that nearly 33 years have passed since the proposal was submitted. Despite several governments holding office since then, there is no record indicating that the proposal was ever implemented.

“Honorable Member, it has been 33 years since you submitted this proposal; nearly 34 years. Several governments have passed since then. The Opposition Leader also served as the Deputy Minister of Health for a period. Similarly, there were numerous Health Ministers. There is no record anywhere that this proposal was implemented in that manner within these 32 years,” the Minister said.

Furthermore, the Minister explained that decisions regarding uniforms for positions within the state health service are made by the Uniform Committee, chaired by the Director General of Health Services. He clarified that this committee does not handle matters regarding the uniforms of nursing officers employed in private sector hospitals.

The Minister emphasized that if those engaged in the sector, a relevant professional group, or any individual has a proposal or opinion that the uniform should be changed, such proposals can be submitted to the Uniform Committee.

Nalinda Jayatissa noted that when considering a proposal, the Uniform Committee generally focuses on the dignity of the profession, the significance of the uniform, the practical necessity for changes, and the prevailing conditions.

Minister Nalinda Jayatissa further stated that while the Uniform Committee can make a ruling after considering all these factors, the government has not yet reached a final decision on the matter.