SILMIYA YOUSUF
COLOMBO : Minister of Labour Nimal Siripala de Silva announced on Friday, September 24 that the government has decided to waive the PSR test charges for the arriving migrant workers from any part of the world.
PCR tests has been made mandatory at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake for all incoming Sri Lankans to the island. The newly set up PCR laboratory will conduct these tests and give the report within four hours to the arriving passengers.
He further said it has been decided to provide the concession temporarily for a period of three months which would otherwise cost a passenger $ 40.
SLBFE spokesman Mangala Randeniya told Colombo Times that the bureau has come forward to foot the cost of the PCR test from its Welfare Fund. It should be noted that the service will be offered only to those who have been already registered with the bureau.
Randeniya further explained that the facility has been granted by the government in response to low-income migrant workers who found it difficult to pay for these services. “ Those who can afford to pay for these services are welcome to make payments and avail themselves of such as services,” he said, pointing out that this would help save the fund which is meant for the welfare of the deserving overseas workers from all parts of the world.
He said those whose clinical reports are negative can walk out from the airport, others will be advise to undergo self-quarantine in their respective homes under the supervision of healthcare officials.
