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SEEKER, EMPTY THE BOAT, LIGHTEN THE LOAD, BE FREE OF CRAVING AND JUDGMENT AND HATRED, AND FEEL THE JOY OF THE WAY. LORD BUDDHA LACK OF ADEQUATE TESTING AND OPENING UP Red alert by health experts

z 85% infected show mild or BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA However, the top health official have warned that it is too early to warned that there was a possibility scale down stay-at-home orders. no symptoms Amidst preparations to relax public health restrictions of infected persons being amongst Meanwhile, the Government z on the activities of people and businesses, health experts society while not showing any Medical Officers’ Association WISHING ALL OUR READERS A Over 25,000 tests done for warn that the country still lacks adequate testing to track symptoms right now, and this (GMOA) also previously HAPPY VESAK population of 22 million and contain potential coronavirus outbreaks. could only be ruled out after insisted that the testing of first testing for Covid-19. contacts traced through Covid- z At least 500,000 tests Speaking to The Morning, a to at the very least evaluate the According to experts, a lack of 19-positive patient evaluation top health official, who wished impact of reopening the country. testing is a critical issue; at least should be completed before required before opening up to remain anonymous, revealed According to statistics, the around 500,000 tests should be taking any decision with regard that the country’s testing rate lags country has so far conducted conducted in order to gradually to the resumption of economic FOREIGN AID FOR CORONA FUND z Public must be informed of far below the standard amount only around 25,000 tests for its restart the country’s economy, activities. Govt. awaits real situ, says GMOA that should be conducted in order total population of 22 million. according to him. As such, they Contd. on page 2 fulfilment of Trying to make ends meet... FAILURE TO GRANT FINANCIAL PLEDGES pledges Private sector Sri Lanka is eagerly awaiting the fulfilment of international pledges as coronavirus stimulus packages, Co-Cabinet Spokesman Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardena said facing collapse yesterday (6). Accordingly, the Government had already z Promised moratorium z Most companies unable held discussions with the World Bank, Asian delayed till June to pay May salaries Development Bank (ADB), and China. Contd. on page 2 Small, medium, and large- or not, would be announced scale businesses affected by the end of the first week by the Covid-19 situation of June. are facing uncertainty and For businesses, as claimed OVER 10,000 TOURISTS IN SL difficulties in paying staff by Waduge, the need of the salaries, as they are yet to hour was financial support, receive financial support as they couldn’t wait another Registered pledged by the Government, month as many of them have according to the Sri Lanka to pay salaries to around Trade Development Council 50-100 employees or more. with SLTDA (SLTDC). “We have already paid Over 10,000 foreign tourists still in SLTDC Chairman Roshana salaries for two months, but Sri Lanka have been registered with the Waduge told The Morning from next month we are in real Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority that the number of council financial difficulty,” Waduge (SLTDA). members – large, small, and stressed. Minister of Foreign Affairs Dinesh medium-scale businessmen He also questioned the Gunawardena said the SLTDA and the – who applied for the necessity of providing Foreign Affairs Ministry were monitoring moratorium were told that financial support once the the situation. Street vendors wearing face masks selling Vesak lanterns yesterday (6), ahead of the Vesak Festival celebrated around the the decision on whether their business had collapsed. Contd. on page 2 businesses would be entitled Contd. on page 2 island today (7) PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE

ISOLATED AREAS MANUFACTURING SECTOR TO REOPEN Govt. to repatriate Total of 4 Navy Over 5,000 All employees migrant workers officers recover asked to self- z Process to commence within 10 days A total of four Navy officers The Government is soon shown interest in returning to have fully recovered from Covid- to be retained to commence the process of the country. 19, the Sri Lanka Navy said. quarantine BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA Committee of the Labour repatriating Sri Lankan expat “There are a certain number The officers have been BY AGRA RANASINGHE Ministry reached an workers in the face of the Covid- who have lost work as a discharged from the relevant The Government has agreement on Tuesday 19 global outbreak. result of closures; some are hospitals. Around 4,000 persons in a Modara apartment decided to reopen the that the manufacturing Minister of Foreign Affairs temporary closures and some are complex, 1,000 persons in Kolonnawa, and manufacturing industry enterprises will start,” Dinesh Gunawardena told The terminations. So we’ll follow up residents of Bandaranayakepura and Kolombissa from next week and would he said. Morning that the Government by bringing them back,” he said. have been instructed to self-quarantine, The ensure that all employees Noting that all those would repatriate those who had Contd. on page 2 186 repatriated Morning learnt. were paid, regardless of work who are working would A senior Army official of the National opportunities. be doing so according to Operation Centre for Prevention of Covid- Minister of Skills Health Ministry guidelines, from S’pore 19 Outbreak (NOCPCO) in Rajagiriya Development, Employment, the Minister said that anyone COVID-19 ASSISTANCE A SriLankan Airlines told The Morning that these residents have and Labour Relations who was unable to work due special flight carrying 186 Sri been asked to self-quarantine as Covid-19- Dinesh Gunawardena said to such restrictions would still Lankans including students positive persons were identified in the areas of the Tripartite Committee be employed and paid wages. US commits $ 5.8 m from Singapore, landed at the Kolonnawa, Bandaranayakepura Kolombissa, had reached an agreement “If there are workers Bandaranaike International and an apartment complex in Modara on on Tuesday (5) to who might not be able to Airport (BIA) yesterday (6). Tuesday (5). commence operations of start work as a result of the to Sri Lanka Contd. on page 2 the manufacturing sector on medical regulations such as The US announced the Sri Lanka’s security and Monday (11). The Tripartite maintaining social distancing, commitment of more than $ sovereignty,” said US Committee consists of the those workers who are unable 4.5 million to help Sri Lanka in Ambassador to Sri Lanka Midwives Employers’ Federation to be accommodated will its fight against Covid-19. This Alaina B. Teplitz. “Over the of Sri Lanka, trade union also have the option of brings their total contribution past 20 years, US assistance SriLankan to representatives, and officials being accommodated on to $ 5.8 million. in Sri Lanka has totalled more express concern of the Ministry of Labour. a shift basis. “This assistance than $ 1 billion, including $ zLack of safety measures commence cargo "The Tripartite Contd. on page 2 continues the long 26 million for health.” tradition of US support for Contd. on page 2 The Government Midwifery operations Service Association said they Srilankan Airlines is to begin cargo operations were facing a safety issue to support the struggling export industry, from as midwives were not being 18 May. Accordingly, SriLankan Cargo services PRESIDENT'S SECRETARY WRITES TO STATE INSTITUTION HEADS provided with personal protective are to operate 27 flights out of Colombo that equipment (PPE) while treating will connect Sri Lanka with key markets in young children and elders amidst the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Call for contribution to Covid-19 fund the Covid-19 pandemic in the “We have no doubt that every single export President’s Secretary Dr. P.B. in a press statement. able to reduce its budget deficit,” Government would also be able country, thereby increasing their industry will benefit from this bold initiative Jayasundera has requested all He said if government servants Dr. Jayasundera added. to manage its debt. risk of contracting the virus. that we plan to launch on 18 May, at a time state institutions to consider agree to contribute, the proceeds He said the Treasury spends Dr. Jayasundera has pledged when most other airlines are keeping their contributing half a week’s or will be deposited into the Widows’ approximately Rs. 100 billion his salary for the month of May fleets grounded and global trade by air is under a day’s pay from their May and Orphans’ Pension Fund. on salaries per month. to set an example to the staff of SEE FULL STORIES a lockdown situation. salaries to combat Covid-19, “The country would further be He further noted that the the President’s Office. ON PAGE 2 Contd. on page 2 2 the morning NEWS Thursday, May 7, 2020

SUPERIOR COURTS COMPLEX TO RESUME OPERATIONS ON MONDAY Emphasis on safety measures z after each shift. their vehicles and prevent congregation of Avoid sharing material – sharing of items BASL proposes guidelines to CJ and JSC Hand sanitiser – to be kept inside courthouses people in the car parks. Even in the public such as books, stationery, etc. between the BY SARAH HANNAN “We have instructed the Registrar to and registrar’s and judge’s chambers for car parks, the congregation of people should lawyers as well as the court staff should be purchase the necessary sanitisation products the constant use of judges, lawyers, and be prevented. avoided. The Bar Association of Sri Lanka and equipment promulgated by the Ministry staff. Special attention to be given to staff Gloves – encourage the judges, lawyers, and Lunch breaks – avoid giving lunch breaks to (BASL) and the Colombo Law of Health and disinfect the court premises, members handling cash and issuing/accepting staff to wear disposable hand gloves when the court staff at the same time in order to Society (CLS) have proposed safety set up handwashing stations, and supply hand documents. Such staff members to be given inside court premises. prevent overcrowding in lunchrooms and measures that should be adapted sanitiser as required, in time to commence work alcohol-based sanitiser to be used each time Disinfection – disinfect the entire courthouse other places where meals are taken. when court resumes work in the on Monday, 11 May. Dates are to be re-fixed they handle cash/documents. each day after all the litigants and where Continuous monitoring – periodically obtain coming weeks, to the Judicial for matters that were not taken up over the Face mask – everyone entering the court possible, when all the lawyers and a majority the service of the local health authorities to Service Commission (JSC) and the past few weeks due to curfew and lockdown, premises including lawyers, staff, court of the staff have left. Special attention to be visit court premises and advise on health Chief Justice (CJ), The Morning and will be communicated by the Registrar clerks, and litigants should be required to drawn to walls which are constantly touched, measures to be implemented. To have online learnt. to the Bar Association or relevant attorneys,” wear a proper face mask (surgical or cloth railings, benches, tables, docks, witness periodic meetings among local judges, branch Minister of Justice, Human Rights, and Legal mask covering nose and mouth, handkerchiefs boxes, door handles, lifts, etc. If possible, bar associations, official representatives of Several attorneys recently raised concerns Reforms Nimal Siripala De Silva said. should not be allowed to be used as face regularly disinfect these highly contagious the relevant local authority and local public over the country’s main courts complex On matters that are urgent, the counsel that masks) to prevent droplets being released to areas in between court sessions using an health officers in order to assess the situation. resuming its operations in the coming days appears on behalf of those parties can, by the environment. Any person who does not alcohol-based sanitiser. Attire – the BASL is of the view that wearing as it is situated in a high-risk area where one way of a motion, apply to the relevant judge wear a face mask should not be permitted PPEs for frontline staff and other measures the cloak, coat, and tie which are not subjected of the biggest Covid-19 clusters was reported. at court indicating that the matter is urgent to enter. – make sure that the police officers and to daily washing, as well as the saree, poses BASL President Kalinga Indatissa PC, and needs to be taken up for hearing. Based Body temperature – prevent any person security officers who discharge their functions a health risk in respect of the spread of the speaking to The Morning, said: “We have on the documents, the judge will decide if it with increased body temperature or having at the entrance to the court premises wear virus, and in these circumstances recommend already drafted a proposed guideline that could is an urgent matter. The matter would then be symptoms of any respiratory disease, or any adequate personal protective equipment the consideration of alternative approved be followed when court resumes operation. It is taken up exclusively with the parties necessary. person who has come into contact with a (PPE) according to the advice of health attire to be worn by attorneys-at-law during in the hands of the Chief Justice and the Judicial De Silva stated that a further circular will be person who is infected or suspected of being authorities of the area, and maintain hygiene. the period, that would minimise such risk. Service Commission to instruct and oversee issued on the resumption of work at the Superior infected with Covid-19 within the last 14 Police officers who perform body searches Canteens and restrooms – all canteens whether these guidelines are implemented Courts Complex along with the update on the days, from entering. are to be instructed through the respective within court premises should be kept effectively. While the situation is still not status of curfew on Saturday (9). Maintaining distance when entering the superior officers, of the need to conduct body closed. It is advisable to keep all lawyers conducive to resume normal operations, proper courts – ensure social distancing is observed searches with minimum risk. Hand sanitiser restrooms closed. However, if the relevant mechanisms need to be in place to ensure that BASL proposed guidelines for by persons entering the court premises, should be made available for them to be used local Bar decides against it for unavoidable the courts will not become a breeding ground resumption of court work are as making sure that a minimum distance of one constantly after carrying out body searches. circumstances, in such events, steps should be for the virus.” follows: metre is maintained at all times. It may be Outsourced services – discontinue/suspend taken to disinfect such places regularly and Indatissa explained that the guidelines were Handwashing – facilities to enable advisable to have markings at the entrance, outsourced cleaning services as the employees also to ensure all the other health guidelines put together after considering suggestions from handwashing should be made available to determine the distance between persons of such service providers may be coming from including social distancing is observed. law societies and associations in Sri Lanka with soap at the entrance to the court standing in such queues. high-risk areas and they may carry the virus Seating – seating arrangements for lawyers and was tabulated to one single document by premises. Separate handwashing facilities Self-assessment – advise judges, lawyers, to the premises. In the event their services and litigants and staff to be made keeping the BASL. to be installed for different stakeholders. and staff to not report to work if they have are considered essential, introduce a proper minimum social distancing (one metre and The proposed guidelines include the general Hand to be dried using single-ply tissues and high body temperature or symptoms of system to minimise the health risk from preferably 1.5 metres). guidelines that the health authorities had issued tissues to be disposed properly into a garbage any respiratory disease, or any person who them. This may include instructions not to Jewellery and wristwatches – discourage for workplaces and it also proposes specialised bin provided. Alternatively, hands can be has come into contact with a person who is obtain services of workers from high-risk the wearing of jewellery and wristwatches. guidelines that should be implemented in the sanitised with an alcohol-based handrub infected or suspected of being infected with areas, those with increased body temperature Air conditioning – air conditioning in court courtrooms to ensure the safety and wellbeing (minimum 70% v/v alcohol). Facility should Covid-19. In such an event, arrangements and/or showing or having symptoms of premises should not be used as far as possible of not only the judges, lawyers, and support be made available in washrooms as well. to be provided to approve leave of any such any respiratory disease, or any person who and air conditioning should not be used inside staff, but also the litigants. Cleaning shoes – a facility to sanitise shoes persons forthwith. has come into contact with a person who lawyers’ rest rooms if they are kept open. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice, Human (with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution) Car parks – identify a separate area for lawyers is infected or suspected of being infected Keep good ventilation inside by opening Rights, and Legal Reforms too had held can be made available at the entrance to the and staff vehicle parking and prevent litigants with Covid-19. Such staff members should doors and windows as far as possible. discussions with judiciary officials last week. court premises next to the handwashing area. from entering such areas to maintain the be subjected to regular PCR (polymerase Identification – to maintain a registry in order Courts in other areas have already resumed Fingerprint – use the hand sanitiser after hygiene of that area and especially prevent chain reaction) testing, and arrange such to record the names and addresses of people work except for the Superior Courts Complex using the fingerprint scanner. Fingerprint the virus being spread through shoes. Direct staff to work after court sessions as much entering the court premises together with the in Hulftsdorp, Colombo 12. scanner should be disinfected before and the drivers of vehicles to remain inside as possible and over the weekend. times of their entry and departure. Contd. from page 1

support in a proper way. “Our airport is closed and most other countries Singapore and Tokyo (Narita) in the Far East; technical experts for response and preparedness. Red alert... Samarasinghe told The Morning that it is too have closed their airports, so international Doha and Dubai in the Middle East; and in US assistance is also enabling Sri Lanka to GMOA Secretary Dr. Haritha Aluthge noted predicted that over one million Sri Lankans will travel is extremely restricted at the moment,” South Asia, Maldivian capital Male, Bangladeshi communicate more effectively about the risk of that it was important to conduct aggressive testing lose their jobs; a number of companies have the Minister noted. capital Dhaka, as well as several cities in India. infection, prevention, and controlling infectious to rule out a second wave of Covid-19 which already begun to lay off employees. – Skandha Gunasekara SriLankan Airlines’ fleet of Airbus A320 and diseases within health facilities. might result after relaxing restrictions without “The Government should protect the private A330 aircraft have been specially modified Since the outbreak of Covid-19, the US following scientific methods. sector and it should provide financial facilities to enhance its cargo capacity, and would be Government has committed more than $ The total number of coronavirus cases in the for them to continue their businesses, and Govt. eagerly... utilised for this purpose. This initiative is aimed 775 million globally in emergency health, country increased to 774 yesterday. Among protect employment opportunities immediately,” “Only the WB funding had so far been finalised, at revitalising the export industry which had been humanitarian, economic, and development these, 549 active cases are under medical care Samarasinghe stressed. but the amounts had not yet been dispersed,” he severely hit by the Covid-19 outbreak. assistance. This is on top of the funding the US while 215 patients who recovered from the virus Highlighting the local apparel sector, told The Morning. Government has already provided via multilateral were discharged from hospitals. Sri Lanka has Samarasinghe noted that it is predicted that over Furthermore, Dr. Gunawardena said discussions and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) confirmed nine fatalities due to Covid-19 so far. 200,000 out of the total of 380,000 employees were currently being held between Sri Lanka Total of... that are helping communities around the world As highlighted by the GMOA, prior to relaxing in the apparel sector will lose their jobs by the and ADB to seek assistance for the impacts of So far, over 300 Navy personnel attached to deal with the pandemic. Months into fighting the restrictions, the health authorities, particularly end of this year. Covid-19. to the Welisara Navy Camp tested positive for Covid-19 at home and abroad, the US remains the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health, Accordingly, the ICEU proposed the Last week, the WB approved the amount of Covid-19. The Welisara Navy Camp, housing the largest single country donor to the response should inform the Government and the public Government introduce a relief package to revive $ 128.6 million for Sri Lanka via their Covid- 4,000 Navy personnel, is now under quarantine. efforts globally. about the true picture of the pandemic within the private sector. 19 Emergency Response and Health Systems In addition to this direct US government the country, and they also need to map it out When The Morning contacted Commissioner Preparedness Project to help the country prevent, funding, the All-of-America approach is after aggressive testing. General of Labour R.P.A. Wimalaweera to inquire detect, and respond to the Covid-19 pandemic 186 Lankans... helping people around the world through the “Around 85% of those infected either show about any action the Government had taken to and strengthen its public health preparedness. The group was directed to quarantine centres. generosity of American private businesses, no symptoms or have mild symptoms, but still protect private sector employees, he said he The new fast track package will benefit the Earlier yesterday, 206 Sri Lankans including non-profit groups, charitable organisations, faith- they can spread the disease. This is why testing was not aware about the decisions taken by the entire Sri Lankan population and prioritise students returned from the UK via a special based organisations, and individuals. Together, is most important,” he explained. Labour Relations Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. stopping or slowing the spread of the virus, SriLankan Airlines flight. Americans have committed an estimated $ 6.5 Director General of Health Services (DGHS) Attempts made by The Morning to contact reducing case numbers, and preventing outbreaks billion in government and non-government Dr. Anil Jasinghe was not available for comment. Minister Gunawardena proved futile. in communities. donations and assistance in the global Covid- As per the WB, the project includes a $ 35 Midwives express... 19 response. million loan from the International Bank for The union’s President, Devika Kodithuwakku, Private sector... Registered... Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) through told The Morning that some midwives who work Highlighting the import and export sectors, the “The Tourism Board has registered all these the WB Group’s Covid-19 Fast-Track Facility in certain areas had not received “protective All employees... SLTDC Chairman noted that an employment cut foreigners. They have the opportunity to go and $ 93.6 million in credit from the International clothing and equipment” and that a majority of All will be on the payroll and no terminations of around 40% could be expected in the import back,” he said. Development Association (IDA), the WB’s them were facing many issues regarding transport, will take place,” he said, adding that those who and export industries, as these were the worst The Minister said all foreigners had gone concessional credit window for developing as some transport services had neglected to had supposedly been terminated due to the affected by the coronavirus. through quarantine procedures. countries. extend services to them. lockdown procedures would in fact retain their Meanwhile, Inter Company Employees Union “They are all residing in hotels around the Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Government She also requested that all pregnant mothers, employment. (ICEU) President Wasantha Samarasinghe country and have all undergone proper quarantine has signed a $ 500 million deal with China children, and elders with chronic diseases The Minister went on to say that a minimum of stressed that those worst affected from the procedures.” Development Bank to help the country better immediately inform the respective midwife Rs. 14,500 had to be paid to a worker, regardless. coronavirus were the private company employees, He noted that the lack of air travel options due mitigate the financial impact of Covid-19, as it of the area as soon as any health matters arise. “Rs. 14,500 inclusive of EPF (Employment and said the country would have to face severe to the Covid-19 outbreak was a main restriction continues to struggle with fiscal debt. If also facing any problems pertaining to Provident Fund)/ETF (Employment Trust Fund) unemployment if it did not provide financial they are facing. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa transport or lack of PPE, Kodithuwakku requested contributions or 50% of the last basic salary – they inform her or the midwives union via 0718 whichever is higher – will be paid to all employees 248 412. She requested all midwives to follow for the months of May and June,” he said, adding Over 5,000... the Government’s advice and continue to provide that that a review would be carried out at the Cartoon of the day In addition, the Police Media Division (PMD) their services to the public as much as possible. end of June. told The Morning that six areas including – Agra Ranasinghe Suduwella in Ja-Ela, Nagalagam Street in Grandpass, Abhayapura and Somapura in Govt. to... Polonnaruwa, Kurunduwatta, and Narahenpita US commits... The countries from which Lankan employees continue to be categorised as isolated areas till This assistance, channelled through the United would be repatriated include the Maldives, further decision. States Agency for International Development Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Kuwait. (USAID), includes $ 2 million to increase social The Minister said there were between 500- services for areas and populations most impacted 1,000 Sri Lankans in most counties, except for SriLankan... by the crisis, and support for activities that Bangladesh. “In Bangladesh, there are over 1,000 “The Government is extremely keen on build social cohesion. Another $ 2 million will Sri Lankans,” the Minister said. restarting the country’s export industries at the strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises He said that whoever was unregistered would earliest possible moment, and we at SriLankan and increase women’s economic participation. have to be given passports. Airlines have been intent on restarting our services As part of the newly announced assistance, the “The Controller of Immigration has agreed to from the day that we reluctantly suspended US is also providing $ 590,000 in humanitarian issue passports according to the law, so this might regular operations in the face of the global assistance that will support vulnerable people take a few days, but the process would start,” pandemic,” SriLankan Airlines Chairman Ashok during the pandemic. the Minister said, adding that the Government Pathirage said. This new assistance builds on the $ 1.3 million would also look to bring back those who had The destinations SriLankan Cargo would in health assistance the US Embassy announced travelled abroad for medical purposes. operate to include London and Frankfurt in on 9 April, which is helping the Government The Government will commence the process Europe; Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou prepare laboratory systems, activate case-finding within the next 10 days, the Minister said. (Canton) in China; Melbourne in Australia; and event-based surveillance, and support – Skandha Gunasekara the morning 3 Thursday, May 7, 2020 business DCSL eager to Tokyo Cement wants restart liquor sales cement import BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR Melstacorp PLC is essentially an investment company with restrictions continued The largest liquor diversified holdings in listed BY UWIN LUGODA manufacturer in the and unlisted companies in country, Distilleries many industries and is owned Tokyo Cement Company Company of Sri Lanka by business tycoon Harry (Lanka) PLC has PLC (DCSL), is hoping to Jayawardena, who also serves as recommended that the Sri recommence liquor sales as Chairman of DCSL. Lankan Government “remain soon as possible, according A significant portion of the steadfast” in restricting to a disclosure issued by its Melstacorp revenue is comprised cement imports that increase parent company Melstacorp from the turnover of subsidiary the country’s foreign companies, notably DCSL PLC, PLC yesterday (6) to the exchange exposure without Aitken Spence PLC, Balangoda adding value to the local Colombo Stock Exchange Plantations PLC, Madulsima (CSE). Plantations PLC, Lanka Bell Ltd., economy. “We would be working towards Continental Insurance Lanka Ltd., In a statement released to getting the beverage sector DCSL Chairman Harry Jayawardena and Periceyl (Pvt.) Ltd. the Colombo Stock Exchange functioning normally as soon as Sri Lanka’s liquor industry, (CSE) on 4 May, Tokyo Cement possible, which would cushion to guidelines outside “wine stores”. one of the top contributors to the Managing Director S.R. Gnanam pressure from various industries, a market, while helping reduce a great extent (the) adverse impact Gooneratne stated that country’s tax revenue, lost its stated that due to saturation by list of goods were exempted from the country’s outflow of forex on the company’s finances. This restrictions placed on liquor sales annual Sinhala and Tamil New importers, last year saw local these restrictions if the importers that would otherwise go towards would be the priority,” Melstacorp is significantly impacting both the Year and Easter sales this year manufacturers supplying only obtained the approval of the Import imports. PLC Managing Director Amitha topline and bottom line revenue of owing to the ongoing curfew 62% to the national consumption, and Export Control Department. Tokyo Cement has been in Gooneratne stated. the company. imposed to curtail the spread of despite having the capacity to Cement was included among these operation for three decades and The Government imposed an “It is indeed significantly Covid-19 within the country. supply 90%. exemptions. is the largest manufacturer and islandwide curfew on 20 March impacting the Government’s As noted by the industry, the “The local production capacity He explained that for every supplier of cement in Sri Lanka, which compelled all businesses revenue and it is imperative that losses could be in the billions, of our cement industry is 5.7 $ 1 spent on the import of raw with an installed capacity of nearly excluding essential services to the present curtailment on the sale as Easter and New Year sales million metric tonnes (MT), materials for local production of two million tonnes of cement. The be closed down. Even though of liquor is normalised in the not collectively bring in significant which amounts to 90% of last cement, $ 2 is spent on cement company also employs over 600 the curfew has been lifted and too distant future,” Gooneratne revenue, similar to that of year’s national consumption of 6.3 imports, which unnecessarily people and has Rs. 14 billion in re-imposed a number of times noted. Christmas any given year. million MT. In the short run, we are exasperates Sri Lanka’s national assets. since then, liquor shops were DCSL is a diversified Sri Speaking to The Sunday well placed and have targeted these forex deficit. Earlier this year, Asia Securities, asked to remain closed. In mid- Lankan conglomerate listed on the Morning Business last month, an markets catered to by importers.” In his statement, Gnanam stated a Colombo-based brokerage, stated April, liquor shops were allowed CSE with a market capitalisation official from a renowned liquor The Government imposed import that the market will contract in a research report that Sri Lanka’s to be opened in low-risk districts of $ 600 million. It was one of the manufacturer stated that the restrictions on all non-essential further due to the Covid-19-related cement production and bagging where curfew was lifted, but first Sri Lankan companies to be company had lost sales to the tune goods in April for three months economic impact, and suggested capacity will outstrip demand were asked to close the following listed in Forbes’ Best Managed of about Rs. 3 billion, which they to prevent a looming foreign that this is an opportunity for local in the near term with new plants day due to consumers’ failure Companies (outside the US) with were expecting to make during exchange crisis, and this applied manufacturers and job creators to coming in, until economic activity to maintain social distancing revenue under $ 1 billion. this festive season. to cement too. However, amidst service a larger slice of the local recovers. Fitch downgrades Central Bank warns banks that BOC, NSB, and DFCC Fitch Ratings downgraded the ratings coronavirus pandemic poses increased of three banks including Bank of risks to the previously anticipated fail to reduce lending rates Ceylon (BOC), National Savings Bank expansion in the economy, which will (NSB), and DFCC Bank on Tuesday affect performance of the banks. The Central Bank of Sri “The Board arrived at this (5), following the downgrade of the Sri “We have revised our assessment of Lanka (CBSL) yesterday decision considering the Lankan sovereign rating on 24 April. Sri Lankan banks’ operating environment (6) warned that it will necessity to further support Fitch has downgraded Sri Lanka’s to ‘b-’/Negative, from ‘b’/Negative, be compelled to take the economy to weather the largest bank, BOC’s Long-Term Foreign primarily to reflect the heightened risk regulatory action adverse economic impact and Local-Currency Issuer Default of doing business in the jurisdiction. against banks and caused by the Covid-19 Ratings (IDRs) to “B-“ from “B”. The Under Fitch’s base-case scenario, we financial institutions pandemic, given subdued Outlook remains Negative. At the same forecast the world economy and the Sri if they do not reduce inflationary pressures.” time, Fitch has downgraded BOC’s Lankan economy to contract in 2020 by lending rates as desired With this decision, policy Viability Ratings (VR) to “b-“ from “b”, 3.9% and 1.0%, respectively. We expect by the CBSL soon. interest rates of the CBSL Support Rating to “5” from “4”, and its banks’ financial profiles to come under have been reduced by 150 Support Rating Floor to “B-“ from “B”. stress from the increased challenges “Financial institutions basis points thus far in NSB’s Long-Term Foreign and Local- in the operating environment, and are urged to reduce lending 2020, in addition to the Currency IDRs has been downgraded their key credit metrics are likely to be rates without further delay, other measures taken to to “B-“ from “B”. The Outlook remains weaker than our previous expectations, failing which, the Central ease monetary conditions in Negative. notwithstanding regulatory reliefs,” it Bank will be compelled to the market. Fitch has also downgraded DFCC noted. take appropriate regulatory Bank PLC’s Long-Term Foreign and Fitch said it expects GDP growth of action to bring down market The new rates are Local-Currency IDRs to “B-“ from “B” 4% for Sri Lanka in 2021, on the basis lending rates,” it said in a as follows: and its Viability Rating (VR) to “b-“ of a gradual recovery in tourism receipts press release. from “b”. The Outlook on the Long-Term beginning in late 2020. However, it This was after the yy SDFR – 5.50% IDR is Negative. The Short-Term IDR added this forecast is subject to an CBSL said it noted with Central Bank Governor W.D. Lakshman yy has been affirmed at “B”. The Support unusually high degree of uncertainty disappointment that market SLFR – 6.50% Rating and Support Rating Floor have and downside risk, depending on the lending rates had not conditions during the year. Lending Facility Rate (SLFR) yy Bank Rate – 9.50% been affirmed at “5” and “No Floor”, evolution of the pandemic both within Sri declined in line with the Furthermore, the CBSL of the CBSL by 50 basis y respectively. Lanka and globally. series of measures it had also decided to reduce the points to 5.50% and 6.50%, y Statutory Reserve The rating action follows the Correspondingly, the Outlook for taken to ease monetary Standing Deposit Facility respectively, effective from Ratio (SRR) - 4.00% downgrade of the Sri Lankan sovereign the operating environment assessment policy and monetary Rate (SDFR) and the Standing close of business yesterday. (unchanged) rating on 24 April 2020, which Fitch is maintained at Negative, to reflect said reflects the impact of the escalating the possibility of further downside coronavirus pandemic on Sri Lanka’s risks should the potential impact of the economy. Fitch revised its 2020 economic fallout from the coronavirus Outlook on Sri Lanka’s banking sector pandemic become more pronounced or Pan Asia Bank provides value-added to Negative in March 2020, saying the linger. services amidst Covid-19 Supporting the country’s conducted in compliance Marketing agency Loops efforts to fight the Covid-19 with guidelines issued by pandemic, Pan Asia Bank has the Government and health deployed a range of value- authorities. added services to ensure No sooner the country appoints Perez Daniel customers can stay safe was struck by the Covid-19 at home and yet access its pandemic, Pan Asia Bank banking solutions. swiftly and proactively took Executive Creative Director Responding to the need a decision to not to recover Loops, one of Sri diverse agency that adopts of the hour, Pan Asia Bank the loan instalments for three Lanka’s largest creative- a creative-led integrated introduced a mobile ATM months for the Sammana, led integrated marketing approach. The age of (automated teller machine) Swabhimana, and Ranaviru agencies, has appointed collectivism celebrates vehicle service for the added loans it had granted as a marketer Perez Daniel collaborative creativity. It convenience of customers as special relief measure. as its Executive Creative is not just about creatives well as non-customers. The Pan Asia Bank is offering a Director. coming together, but a call mobile vehicle will be serving host of relief measures for its Daniel has over 20 for an integrated effort customers across the Colombo cardholders, such as waiving years of experience in internally and externally. District, enabling them to late payment fees until 30 advertising and marketing While integrated methods withdraw cash, obtain their September 2020, extending all communications and may give an eerie feeling to account details, etc. Moreover, payment due dates in April till a proven record in the selfish, it is a tried and any additional fees generally Bank branches will remain 19 are being taken by the 30 April 2020, reducing the client satisfaction, Perez Daniel tested model of creative charged when another bank’s open from 8.30-11.00 a.m. on staff, such as wearing masks, minimum payment to 2.5%, business growth, and leadership for those who ATM is used, will be refunded weekdays (except holidays) gloves, sanitising, and etc. Furthermore, customers impactful work. He has Young & Rubicam, Saatchi consider the long run. I to all Pan Asia Bank ATM while in non-curfew areas, the frequent disinfection of the can also enjoy a lower had successful stints & Saatchi, and DDB. look forward to creating cardholders at the end of the branches are kept open from 9 common areas. The safety and interest rate of 15%, which at global marketing Speaking about his new new trends and driving month during this period. a.m. to 3 p.m. wellbeing of its customers are will be applicable for local and communications chapter at Loops, Daniel transformation in close Also even during curfew All the official health the bank’s foremost priority transactions up to a cumulative powerhouses such as said: “I am excited to be cahoots with the rest of the hours, selected Pan Asia precautions against Covid- and all its activities will be value of Rs. 50,000. Wunderman Thompson, joining such a vibrant and Loopies.” 4 the morning brunch Thursday, May 7, 2020

have grasped the importance of mental health and how to tackle such situations. In fact, Fernando shared that instead, some members were thereafter prone to be judged with what he calls a “special lens”, Writing the where any problem which occurred was because they were “too depressed” or “too sad and negative”. According to Fernando, some individuals were even told that they were required and expected to take endure semicolon, more work pressure, even though they might feel depressed or even suicidal! “So clearly, we have a long way to go in terms even during curfew of educating and equipping employers to tackle mental health-related issues. Many members are thereafter reluctant BY BERNADINE RODRIGO While they have a few online sessions through platforms such as Zoom, it’s to escalate these issues as job security is their main priority in the current situation,” The Semicolon Effect is an awfully difficult for them to operate as frequently as they used to. Hence, they use expressed Fernando. initiative by Shavintha Fernando, “To be honest, online sessions are who believes he has a duty to a WhatsApp group through which they can constantly be in touch with each other. not the most effective form of therapy,” help anyone he can, through the They have weekly check-ups and talk about said Fernando disappointedly. It does not difficulties of mental stress. how each member’s week is going, via provide the environment for members to one-on-one conversations with them. They open up and express their emotions and In a society where mental health discuss sensitive topics. concerns are not discussed in public, except do this to remind them that there is always a healthy form of release and a good “However, it is still a form of release to raise awareness, and issues such as as the current members feel safe enough depression are greatly stigmatised amongst support system when they are not feeling their best and want to unload. to discuss both the good and the struggles many individuals, Fernando wanted to of their weeks freely, knowing they won’t create a real, physical space where those Members feel free, explained Fernando, to unload the burdens of their be judged. It’s definitely preferred to have in distress could talk about their problems. physical meetings where even if a member The Semicolon Effect works on a weekly week and have even mentioned that they really appreciate the weekly check-ups; breaks down, the power of words, actions, basis, where they meet up and talk about and a warm hug could really help ease the their personal problems in something they have said that it helps get certain burdens off their shoulders temporarily. pain and create a sense of safety and being similar to that of a support group. cared for.” Since they’ve begun, they’ve seen a Fernando said that the best part about large increase in membership and received During this time, the sessions is that they do not feel or look a significant number of inquiries from however, they have like formal therapy sessions but rather like interested individuals. However, they’ve noticed two prime problems a group of friends checking up on each currently stopped taking new submissions which have arisen amongst other. However, this gives rise to another due to the coronavirus situation, as it is the participants, who are challenge, he shared. “Some members do difficult and not practical for them to mostly between the ages of attend the sessions with their families,” welcome a member without a face-to- 18 and 30 said Fernando. “Some of these families face meeting with the rest of the group, to do not know that the attendee is receiving maintain the level of comfort and security the required support and sometimes they for the rest of the members. “Whenever someone is going through too much, they feel safe enough to drop do not understand the concept of mental Just like their usual sessions, their health.” online sessions are 100% voluntary. “There a message on our WhatsApp group,” Fernando said. “And the best part about Currently, they have only had very have been few members who discussed small, basic sessions, but going forward, their concerns of not feeling comfortable the WhatsApp group is that there is always someone who will reply.” He goes onto they hope to incorporate guest speakers enough to open up during the online and mental health-related activities in their sessions and some members who struggle explain how everyone else still helps: “And other members keep adding on, trying to online sessions. An online session they with displaying their faces on screen due are currently working on and are hoping to paranoia and low self-esteem. They rationalise the thoughts and reminding them of their self-worth and the importance to conduct soon is “Bring Your Pet to usually don’t participate for the online noticed two prime problems which have individuals extreme stress. of their contributions. If things get too Therapy”, where members will display sessions, but do come for our physical arisen amongst the participants, who are Fernando said that some of the members serious and we fear there is a risk of any their pets during the session to the rest of sessions,” explained Fernando. “So, for mostly between the ages of 18 and 30. had tried speaking to their employers harm, we try to connect via phone or video the members and discuss how their pets such members we limit their check-ups to One is the recurrence of depressive about their mental health status and how call and if it still can’t be resolved, we affect their mental health; the aim, overall, our usual WhatsApp conversations. No thoughts while in self-isolation and the the additional work pressure and countless divert them to a professional psychologist is to have a fun session incorporating member is left out; all members have the other is the increase of work as a result hours of work affects their mental health, but to approach them.” our pets. Fernando shared: “So we are option of joining the online session based of companies trying to maintain profits received some negative responses. During this time, however, they have taking our best efforts to make sessions as on their level of comfort.” during this economic, causing these This demonstrates that not all employers comfortable and interactive as possible.”

BY BERNADINE RODRIGO reminds us that many in Sri Lanka’s workforce do not necessarily work “Spinner” is a brand which has in air-conditioned rooms. The thing not only kept commuters in Sri Lanka with bikes is that it is actually much healthy through the authentic local more hygienic and it gives you dishes served at their café, but has also great exercise. However, Spinner is provided people with exercise through working on ways that can diminish their dealing in the selling of bicycles. this problem such as finding methods It has always been Spinner’s goal to in which people can freshen up fast get Sri Lanka to travel on wheels...of after arriving at work. course, powered by their legs. During Yasas Hewage Another issue with this which this time, when everybody is staying at people have usually put forward is home and industries around the world that bicycles can sometimes be unsafe. are collapsing, Spinner too was not However, Hewage would like to point Order your spared. out that this fact is not quite true and it However, they did not simply would only be so if bikes were ridden give up and go home, but instead irresponsibly. thought of new ways to push their Along with encouraging people Getting Sri Lanka on wheels after curfew Spinner has taken this time to spread One fact which Hewage puts to use bikes for their daily commute, cause of eco-friendly mobilisation. the value of using bikes around the forward is that people have now Hewage and Spinner would also like food As Yasas Hewage, one of the owners country. realised that staying too close to to encourage people to use bikes from MLH of Spinners, stated that just like a They have already begun their strangers the way Lankans are forced for the courier service. He said that Mount Lavinia Hotel delivers flavoursome God-given, they were introduced to a operations towards this cause. They to on public transport, for instance, there is a global framework for this food to your doorstep for you and your family very new kind of bicycle which might have opened up a facility where may actually have severe medical option and while it is very possible actually be very appealing to people. bicycles can be repaired, which consequences. Hence, a significant to enjoy. in Sri Lanka, it can also be a much One thing which can be tedious when according to Hewage is very important reason to use bikes and keep away Their menu includes a fine spread of main courses, faster option as opposed to cabs and it comes to taking care of a bicycle is because so many of us have bicycles at from anyone – or just about anything burgers, kotthu, devilled bites, cakes, bread, and motorbikes, especially during traffic that its tyres can get easily punctured home that just lay there rusting because as public property can also be home desserts. A selection of Ape Kama by Chef Publis with hours. He said that Spinner will also which is very difficult to fix again, of some minor damage that can easily to a great amount of germs – carrying Sri Lankan favourites is also available. begin their own delivery service especially since winkles are not nearly be fixed. Spinner also provides the any illness. As if the benefit of which they will completely employ your orders to one of the below numbers: as common as they used to be. option of picking up and dropping off exercise is not enough for a health for their bike repairs and can also What is so special about Spinner’s bikes from people’s homes. benefit, bikes have the advantage of be used by anyone else who needs a Colombo 3-8: 0777 901 207 new bike is that it is a special hybrid For the same reason of bikes being actually preventing illness. sustainable delivery method. Nawala, Kotte, Mirihana, and Nugegoda: 0773 613 004 which cannot be punctured. Although left rusting in houses, Spinner has also People are worried about working However, he wants to emphasise Mount Lavinia, Moratuwa, Katubedda, and this may sound very simple, it is a begun an initiative where bikes can be up too much of a sweat during that they don’t have to go through Ratmalana: 0773 112 399 magnificent technological invention. sold to them and then anyone willing mornings, as Sri Lanka is a hot and them but it would be wonderful if Dehiwala, Kalubowila, Pepiliyana, and What else is that while even bicycles can purchase it from them. “Children humid country and going into work they would at least consider doing Boralesgamuwa: 0773 140 420 can be very expensive in the terribly grow up so fast, you buy them a sweating does sound unpleasant. something such as that on their own. Place your orders between 8-10 a.m. and 2-4 p.m. inflated and competitive markets in Sri bicycle and the two years later they’ve However, we are all to remember As they are currently engaged in Minimum order: Rs. 3,500 (delivery free). Lanka, this bike only costs Rs. 15,900, grown up,” says Hewage, “so then you that once again, it is not as though conducting their services through the which Hewage is happy to announce. can just come and sell it to us without public transport cannot have the same use of cabs, Hewage has realised that He believes it is very unfair that leaving it to rust.” effect. Speaking further, Hewage this is an extremely and unnecessarily bicycles can sometimes cost hundreds While they have been conducting expensive method of transport and that of thousands and disappointedly these services slowly during the past bikes would serve our pockets much declared that it shouldn’t be that week and have also held auctions more instead. Nevertheless, he also difficult to see an iron bike for about to sell some of their special “patch- said that this can only be done within a Rs. 10,000 here. less” bikes, they also have greater small cycle-able parameter, reminding Hewage believes that now is the plans to make the use of bikes us that even the slightest bit of help best time than ever to push forward the more common in Sri Lanka to the planet by reduction of any idea of using bikes in Sri Lanka. He after this phase of social amount of carbon emission is said people have finally come to the distancing and self-isolation effective help. understanding that the environment is over. However, the “We have to create some is something which we must protect values learned during this change; we cannot simply watch and have finally understood the value time are going to be pivotal our world being destroyed,” he of money and how we should not be in order to enable this. spending it unnecessarily. Hence, concluded. the morning Thursday, May 7, 2020 sports

Tennis pros help out English Premier League Another record by Sanga! colleagues can be cancelled Kumar Sangakkara is going be invited to serve a second The 2019/20 English Premier League term as Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) President, in light of World tennis bodies yesterday (6) confirmed the current postponement of the club’s activities. He was the creation of a player relief fund to support (EPL) season could be cancelled if clubs do not agree to play in neutral the first overseas head of MCC, a position traditionally players affected by the coronavirus pandemic. given for only a 12-month term. During World Wars I and It is a fund created mainly by top pros to venues, League Managers Association Chief Executive Richard Bevan warned II, Lord (Martin Bladen) Hawke (1914-18, on right) and support around 800 lower ranked pros from Stanley Christopherson (1939-45, centre) both served both men’s and women’s world circuits. yesterday (6). The EPL has been temporarily suspended since 13 March. 92 games are expected to be played from a 12 June restart. for longer periods like Sanga. TENNIS COACHES SPEAK UP Pandemic disaster, challenges for the future, and overcoming them wisely

BY REVATHA S. SILVA And how about if it is faced with Experts say the post-Covid-19 world another epidemic wave? It’s time all will be different from the pre-Covid-19 sports spheres discuss the means of one. Whether it is for the best or for survival, or some preparations for “the the worst could be a broad discussion new normal” in the future. spilling over sporting peripheries. Joining the discussion today are Here, Sri Lanka’s sports industry, leading tennis coaches who run their though being very small one own academies in Colombo. We at The comparatively, is to suffer in the Morning Sports posed three common immediate coronavirus aftermath. questions to them. What is the present 1and projected impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on your profession? How soon do you 2think you should Ganendran Subramaniam restart coaching if the C. Bharathiraj Pillai I continuously put effort for the last few years in training 1my understudies, whose success has been dampened country enters into Presently no coaching for anyone in the country. after just two months of isolation. We have been financially Anupa Maththamagoda 1Therefore, all the coaches are effected by finance affected and mentally as well, we are down as coaches. “staged opening” (issues). There are no competitions, so players too are As a tennis coach, there is no coaching being done We are ready to abide by all the rules and regulations probably from next demotivated. However, we should take this opportunity given by the health authorities and the Government, 1right now. So it is nothing other than an impact of positively to develop our profession and also for personal 2 absolutely 100%. like social distancing, avoiding shaking hands, washing week? development. It is a very good opportunity to plan your hands, etc. We can start immediately after the authorities allow future. Abdul Kalam said: “Difficulties in your life do not What are the 2us to go ahead, but it will initially be only one-on- come to destroy you, but to help you realise your hidden Dineshkanthan Thangarajah Training individuals could be the right option initially, one (individual) coaching. potential and power.” 3after returning to normalcy. There should be the main measures When coaching, we will have to use face masks and Since we are dealing with many groups and kids, it minimum number of kids on court at any given time. 3 Tennis is a sport which can be started first since it will be a heavy negative impact on our profession gloves, and provide sanitiser for the participants 1 3 2is a sport which has no body contact. Also, it is an and financial income. However, since we are dealing with you would take if/ during sessions. Balls can be used separately for the individual sport. One-on-one sessions or training with individual players. Yet, I don’t think I can go back to an outdoor activity, it may not be as bad as an indoor when you restart your two players on court can be there for a start, probably a game. But overall, it will be a huge blow on the industry normal practice sessions until we come up with a week after the curfew is lifted. coaching? permanent vaccine for Covid-19. as a whole, on all kinds of professions related to tennis. It is important to have specific guidelines for players, Group classes should wait till schools reopen, I think. 3parents, and coaches which have been drafted by the 2However, individual classes can begin as soon as Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA). Sri Lankans are not they clear public areas for activities with precautionary used to social distancing, using face masks, etc., but such measures. things will have to be practised in the future. Distancing is one important measure. And we also 3have to ensure that all our equipment is sprayed with disinfectant before use, at all times. We also need to make sure that kids are always informed about handing public areas such as the toilets and other facilities, and also to keep washing their hands as much as possible. All the training facilities should be sprayed with disinfectant Sudantha Soysa on a regular basis. Presently, my academy is fully shut. I believe things 1won’t go back to normal for a while and we can’t Chrishantha Perera expect to open up fully either. We cater to the younger Niranjan Casie Chitty generation, so we have to be very careful and go about Coaches and support staff (hitters/ball boys/court It has been six weeks since we conducted classes at things responsibly. 1maintenance staff/umpires/officials): Many of the the academy. Some of the consequences of this are: coaches are facing financial difficulties. One of the 1 The impact – financially, mainly the loss of income to the academy which means the coaches who work here fulltime biggest issues for coaches running academies could be a) As with many businesses in the country, no revenue Renouk Wijemanne that they may have problems in paying their employees has been generated and head coaches are struggling to and part time are all affected by it. Also, the children who during the curfew period, as they do not have any pay their assistants. There is loss of months of income. The projected play the game enthusiastically are now stuck at home income. When starting, there is a strong chance that b) This hiatus, if prolonged, will have a serious impact on 1impact I think is that a lot of parents will be scared to missing the game. The courts are affected as we use clay attendance may drop below 30% during the first two the development of players to compete at an elite level. send their kids for tennis and some parents may not be courts and nobody has been up-taking them. So, it will take able to afford to send their kids as many of them could a while to repair and get started again. On a positive side, weeks. Most of them are living with uncertainty for the c) A by-product of this is many leading players will future. possibly be facing pay cuts or even layoffs. Group lessons it has been a great time to recharge the body and the mind have difficulty in obtaining scholarships to universities would have to be restricted in terms of numbers and that also; time to reflect on the past and plan for the future, and Players: Most of the players are eagerly waiting to get in the US; according to sources, recruitment has will directly or indirectly lead to a loss of revenue. I say to learn from the internet from many sources where great back on the court and are trying to do anything possible been suspended in the US. This is the most common indirectly because increasing the fees per student may Upul Priyantha educational material is available. with the racquet and the ball at home to avoid boredom. aspiration of our leading players and would certainly be make the lessons unaffordable to some. We have lost our income 100%. No student has paid My plan is not to start immediately. I would take time Parents: At this moment, parents may prioritise their a disappointment to those who have laboured for years over the last two months. We have survived only on to qualify. Personally, I would like to restart right away with 1 2to assess how things are going and also go along commitments. However, a majority may not be confident 2one-on-one lessons and small group lessons. In the income we received from the schools we coach. If not with the Government’s guidelines for safety precautions. in exposing their children to the outside environment The coaches will await government and national tennis, if the coach stays on other side of the net as the for them, it could have been a very bad situation. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) also has got a until the situation has eased. 2association direction on when to restart. All student, there is considerable a distance between the Surely, we have to stick only to individual lessons; no set of guidelines so that we can formulate a plan, buy I would first recommend a further 10-14 days as an academies are, of course, eager to begin at the earliest coach and the player – it could be even up to 78 feet as 2group lessons. The Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA) the equipment needed – things like IRT, foot pumps for 2observation period before restarting. possible date. that is the length of a court. In small group lessons as and the government authorities have not given us the washing hands, sanitiser – and then get the precautionary Develop extensive guidelines for players and coaches When projecting the impact of Covid-19 on the tennis well, kids can be instructed to keep a sufficient distance guidelines so far. Our coaches fraternity has decided to measures in a printed format, email it to the students and 3with regard to safety measures against Covid-19. industry, it is reasonable to assume the contraction of the from each other. start step by step soon, once things become somewhat parents, and also post it at the academy. Apart from that, Conduct training sessions for the coaching staff about economy will affect participation in the sport. I do feel Some main measures I would take is to have the normal. But still, we need to follow the guidelines given we will need to demarcate space so the kids can keep to following and implementing guidelines before they start that for a while, tennis will not find priority among many 3kids wash their hands with soap and water when by the authorities. a safe distance when sitting, etc. Luckily for me, I have a coaching. Develop an interim coaching structure such as families in this country. they come and also have them wash their hands before We will definitely have to increase the number of parent who is closely working with the Covid-19 task force one-on-one training (step one) and two players training At this time, it seems inevitable that coaches will they leave. I would refrain from shaking hands with 3hours in our lessons so as to have a lower number of and she will help me develop a plan and I will do what is against each other (step two) and combine training with 3have to recommence on a reduced scale. Those of us the players or giving them “high fives” and disallow it students on court at any given time. Three to four-hour necessary to make the academy as safe as possible for the step one. It is too risky to go beyond two players per who conducted squads that comprised large numbers amongst themselves as well, if it is a group lesson. I lessons could be extended to eight hours. The SLTA will people to use. court at this moment until the players are following the of students will need to reconsider the structure of their would also carry some hand sanitiser in my bag and let have to provide the necessary facilities for sanitising after Stick to local and international guidelines. guidelines 100%. programmes in the short term at least. the kids use it if they wish reopening. 3