Registered tour guides to receive concessions

(FASTNEWS | COLOMBO) – The Ministry of Tourism and Aviation says measures will be taken to provide a concessionary package for registered tour guides affected due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Secretary to the Ministry Siripala Hettiarachchi said around 3,500 tour guides have registered with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

Accordingly, Hettiarachchi said a monthly allowance will be provided for chauffeurs and other persons engaged in the tourism industry.

Siripala Hettiarachchi said an allowance of Rs.20,000 is expected to be provided for tour guides while an allowance of Rs.15,000 is expected to be provided for drivers, monthly.

He said the allowance will be provided in mid June following Cabinet approval.

The subject Ministry said the programme is estimated to cost around Rs.150 million.

Meanwhile the Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation said hotels will be allowed to conduct wedding ceremonies with 1/3 of the guest limit of the reception hall, from this week.