Tourism authorities to take stern action against ‘foreigners only’ outfits

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLDA) yesterday cautioned the licensed establishments, which adopt discriminatory practices against local tourists with a ‘foreigners only’ policy, with stern actions. 

“Several complaints have been made by domestic tourists stating that they are not allowed to enter certain restaurants and hotels in the areas of Hikkaduwa and Arugam Bay, where these establishments seem to have a ‘foreigners only’ policy.

Our constitution affords equal right to all citizens, where no person shall, on the grounds of race, religion, language, caste, sex or any one 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,” SLTDA Chairperson Kimarli 
Fernando said. 

During off seasons and in any difficult period like the Easter Sunday attacks, it’s the local tourists who support the tourism industry to function. Therefore, the SLTDA cautioned the licensed establishments to avoid such discriminatory practices.  

Fernando further stated that the SLTDA would take action to suspend or cancel the licences of such establishments and if found guilty, would take steps to issue fresh licences in such areas to establishments that will serve Sri Lankans as well as foreign guests.