The government has rejected charges of a racket of obtaining funds through the quarantine process of Sri Lankan expatriates upon returning to the country.
Minister of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga said all expatriates who visit Sri Lanka can enter a quarantine centre operated by the government free of charge or to a paid facility maintained by the Sri Lanka Army.
The Minister said expats on arrival are asked of their preference of quarantine centres, adding that in addition to the government maintained free facilities, 30 Level 1 paid hotels ranging from different prices have also been made available.
Minister Ranatunga said an individual, local or foreigner, can pick the most suitable option for quarantine purposes according to what fits their wallet.
The Minister said the Ministry of Health will focus on systematically relaxing the use of strict health practices such as wearing masks, wearing gloves and PPE kits.
Minister Ranatunga said certain foreign countries have eased various methods used in controlling the coronavirus pandemic in comparison to early days of the pandemic.
He stated in some countries regulations of wearing face masks have been eased adding that he travelled overseas twice and witnessed that PPE kits are not worn on board flights.
The Minister said the attention of the Ministry of Health will be directed to the matter, adding that Sri Lanka must look at the developments in other countries and consider their examples.
