Tourism Chief warns stern action against discrimination of local holidaymakers
Sri Lanka Tourism Chairperson Kimarli Fernando |
- Domestic tourism is worth over Rs. 5 b per annum
- Says action will be taken to suspend or cancel licences of such establishments
- Stresses domestic tourism is a critical component of the industry
- Reminds local holidaymakers supported the industry through its most difficult periods
- Urges victims of discrimination to make a formal complaint without ranting on social media
Sri Lanka Tourism yesterday warned stern action on licenced establishments that adopt discriminatory practices against local holidaymakers, who bring in over Rs. 5 billion worth of domestic tourism revenue annually, with a ‘foreigners only’ policy.
“Our Constitution affords equal rights to all citizens; where no person shall, on the grounds of race, religion, language, caste, sex or anyone such grounds, be subjected to any disability, liability, restriction or condition concerning access to shops, public restaurants, hotels, places of public entertainment and places of worship. Therefore, no local can be discriminated against,” Sri Lanka Tourism Chairperson Kimarli Fernando told the media
She warned that the Sri Lanka Tourism Authority (SLTDA) will
take action to suspend or cancel licences of such establishments pending
inquiry and if found to be discriminating against domestic tourists will take
steps to issue fresh licences in such areas to establishments that will serve
Sri Lankans as well as foreign guests.
“The tourism industry should not forget that it was always the Sri Lankans who patronized them amidst natural and man-made distress – may it be war, tsunami, Easter Sunday attacks, floods, the COVID-pandemic or off-season. It was recently revealed that domestic tourism is worth over Rs. 5 billion per annum. Therefore, stakeholder establishments should be grateful,” she emphasized.
Acknowledging that these incidents create a negative
sentiment amongst Sri Lankans about the tourism industry, the Chairperson said
that the SLTDA has warned licensed establishments against discrimination of
domestic travelers.
She also called on the domestic travelers to be mindful of
their behavior and use of facilities, noting that it has been a regular
complaint by tourist establishments. “Tourist establishments could also make
complaints against guests who neither care for the property nor adhere to
requirements of the entity. SLTDA will take action against such guests,”
Fernando said.
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