Health guidelines submitted to Parliament

The Health Ministry today submitted a set of health guidelines to Parliament Secretary General Dhammika Dassanayake with the intention of conducting parliamentary sessions in a safe environment.

Mr. Dassanayake said according to health guidelines, all 225 members will be allowed to sit in the chamber and seating arrangements in the chamber would not be changed.

He said however the MPs should adhere to the specified health guidelines specified which do not allow an MP to occupy another's seat.

“The MPs need to sit in their allotted seats and should wear the face mask even when addressing the House. The MPs are not allowed to cross, move and maintain one meter distance in the chamber when not seated. They are also not allowed to shake hands or hug and should if at all resort to non-touch greetings and should avoid using other's headphones or other equipment,” Mr. Dassanayake said.

He said health guidelines have specified the need to disinfect the chamber and other areas, use hand sanitisers, check body temperature of all including visitors among the other health guidelines. (Ajith Siriwardana)