2 weeks Ago By Thilina Walpola
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, has urged the public to contact the dedicated helpline 1989 for reliable information regarding private employment agencies when seeking employment opportunities abroad. The Minister made this statement in response to concerns raised by Members of Parliament during the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, held in Parliament on March 12. The MPs had highlighted the growing issue of individuals defrauding the public by falsely claiming to arrange overseas employment.
Minister Herath explained that the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) provides comprehensive details on licensed agencies and their approved fees on its official website. He emphasized that if anyone is found charging beyond the approved fees or engaging in unauthorized activities, complaints can be filed with the Bureau for further action. During the meeting, MPs also raised serious concerns regarding Sri Lankans living in Russia, who are reportedly being exploited for military operations and subjected to inhumane treatment.
The Chairperson acknowledged the gravity of the situation and assured the Committee that it was being closely monitored, though noting the complexity of the issue. Additionally, the Committee discussed the issue of limiting loudspeaker use for musical events and night parties in tourist areas, with members arguing that the 10:00 pm curfew was negatively impacting the growth of the tourism industry. Minister Herath responded, stating that the matter should be addressed in a way that balances the interests of the tourism industry and the general public’s well-being.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, Arun Hemachandra, as well as other Deputy Ministers, Members of Parliament, and officials from institutions under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism..
