The Hon. Governor of the Northern Province N. Vethanayahan stated that he is prepared to discuss the demands put forward by Veterinary Surgeons with the relevant parties and find a solution, and that action will be taken to review the points-based system for promotions and make amendments promptly.
The Governor made these remarks yesterday – on Monday, 28 September 2026, during a discussion held at the Governor’s Secretariat between representatives of the Northern Province Branch of the Government Veterinary Surgeons’ Association and the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province N. Vethanayahan.
During the discussion, representatives of the Northern Province Veterinary Surgeons’ Association stated that there was discrimination in the points allocation for their promotions and requested that it be reviewed and amended.
They further requested that an appropriate duty roster, which has not been provided to them to date, be prepared and issued. They also pointed out that there is no attendance recording procedure appropriate for various duties, including office duties and field treatment services.
The Association representatives informed the Governor that Veterinary Surgeons have been facing various administrative and work-related difficulties for several years in providing their services efficiently.
Responding to this, Governor N. Vethanayahan stated, “Any matter can only be resolved through discussion. Once a decision has been made and it has been announced that it will be implemented, there is no room for discussion afterwards. Therefore, we are prepared to properly discuss and resolve the issues you raise.”
Emphasizing the need for a good relationship between officials and Veterinary Surgeons, the Governor stressed, ‘Only when such a good relationship exists can you provide better services to farmers and also create a better working environment for yourselves. At the same time, dissatisfaction with the administration or officials should not be expressed towards farmers.’
The Governor also stated that the request made regarding the points allocation for promotions would be reviewed and that action would be taken to make and implement the necessary amendments promptly.
Noting that following the fingerprint system for attendance is a matter subject to the circular of the Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs and therefore cannot be violated, the Governor nevertheless stated that action would be taken to establish an appropriate mechanism to provide the relevant allowances to Veterinary Surgeons who are serving.
In addition, the Governor assured that a discussion would soon be arranged to examine in detail the duty roster, cadre and other work-related matters requested by the Veterinary Surgeons, with the participation of the Secretary of the Provincial Ministry, the Provincial Director and other relevant officials.
The Secretary to the Governor of the Northern Province, the Private Secretary to the Governor and representatives of the Northern Province Branch of the Government Veterinary Surgeons’ Association participated in this discussion.
