(UTV|COLOMBO) – The Ministry of Public Administration has informed state officials to ensure all essential public services continue despite the circumstances that may arise as a result of the coronavirus.
The Secretary to the Ministry S Hettiarachchi said food, medicine, water supply, power and energy, health services and international banking services will continue to function.
The Secretary directed the circular to Secretaries of Ministries, Chief Secretaries, District Secretaries, heads of Departments, Corporations and Statutory Boards, Divisional Secretaries and Grama Niladhari officers.
The circular also indicates several measures that can be taken in order to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Accordingly taking measures through civil security committees to mitigate the prevention of the virus, seeking the assistance of the security forces in operations, and directing persons who are suspected to have contracted the coronavirus to quarantine facilities are recommended.
The Ministry of Public Administration also advised officials to ensure minimum public engagement at state institutions for various duties and to resort to mobile and e-mail communication to minimise interactions on Wednesday’s designated as Public Day.
The government ordered the temporary cancellation of training programmes that involve the public and state officials including other gatherings.
The circular also states that in the event of the spread of the coronavirus, duties at state offices could be limited with only essential staff expected to report to work.
