The Prime Minister expressed these views during his tour from Bentota to Hikkduwa to focus attention on the issues affecting the tourism sector and to plan future development programmes. He pointed out that any damage to the environment would affect the beauty of the beach.
“The Southern province has been an area of tourist attraction for its environmental beauty. Tourism depends largely on environmental beauty. The coastal area was seriously affected by the tsunami disaster and even the Galle road was damaged. If the beach is protected the effects of any such disaster and sea erosion could be prevented. The income from tourism could be increased by providing a better service to the tourists. This requires improvements to the hotels, guest houses and restaurants. An era of national reconciliation has dawned under the present government and it augurs well for tourism. The main object of the government is to enhance the income of those engaging in the industry and it depends on the services provided” the Prime Minister said.
Minister of Home Affairs Vajira Abeywardene, Minister of Parliamentary Reforms and Media Gayantha Karunatilleka, Ratgama Chief UNP Electoral OrganiserAsoka Somaratne, Leader of the Opposition in the Southern Provincial CouncilAsoka Dhanawansa, and several senior officials were present at the occasion.