Minister of Industrial Export, Investment Promotion, Tourism and Aviation, Hon.Prasanna Ranatunga instructs the officials to commence the relief works immediately as per the recommendations of the Cabinet.

He made this observation at a special discussion held with the Heads of State Banks, Officials of the Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and the Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation. This discussion was held yesterday evening (10) at the Ministry of Industrial Export & Investment Promotion.

The Heads of State Banks stated that they would take necessary action in this regard as soon as they receive the Cabinet approval through the Ministry of Finance. It was also decided at this meeting to make further arrangements for the payment of allowances to the Tour Guides and Tourist Drivers through the SLTDA.

The Cabinet has granted approval to the Cabinet Memorandum submitted by Hon.Prasanna Ranatunga, Minister of Industrial Export, Investment Promotion, Tourism and Aviation in order to provide relief to 144,117 persons in the tourism sector who were affected by the Covid- 19 epidemic. As per the Cabinet Memorandum, these reliefs are granted to the staff of the hotel (accommodation) sector and staff of DMC/Travel Agents, employees of other establishments including Restaurants, Tourist Friendly Eating Places, Spa & Wellness Centers and Tour Guides and Tourist Drivers registered with Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).