A meeting was held under the Chairmanship of Mr. S. Hettiarachchi, Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation with the aim of revitalizing the Sri Lankan tourism industry, affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, in Ella Mount Heaven Hotel on 12^th June 2020.

Mr. Hettiarachchi disclosed that the Ministry is aware of immediate responses and measures to be taken to address serious issues faced by small and medium scale hotel owners and their employees. He further stated that the Cabinet has approved a grace period of six months for Water and Electricity Bills, and a concessionary loan package to the Hoteliers registered under the SLTDA in order to provide monthly allowance for a period of six months to their employees.

The Mayor (Acting) of Haputhale Urban Council, Divisional Secretary of Ella, Assistant Secretary of Uva Provincial Tourism Ministry, Director (Domestic Tourism- SLTDA), Chairman of Ella Pradeshiya Sabha and several other stakeholders of tourism industry of the area participated at the event. The officials welcomed the creative and innovative suggestions from the participants.

Certificates of SLTDA Registration were offered to the requested Homestays in Ella area by the Secretary and other distinguished guests at the end of the event.