Friday Sep 04, 2026
Friday Sep 04, 2026
Friday, 4 September 2026 01:24 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the appointment of a review committee to examine proposed amendments to the country’s Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases Ordinance No. 3 of 1897, with the aim of strengthening the legal framework governing infectious disease prevention.
The ordinance serves as Sri Lanka’s primary legal framework for preventing the spread of infectious diseases and enforcing quarantine measures.
Addressing the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday, Cabinet Spokesman and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the significant increase in the international and domestic movement of people, goods and services has heightened the risk of infectious diseases spreading across borders.
“Increased international travel and expanding global trade have also contributed to the rapid transmission of infectious diseases between countries,” he said.
In 2016, the Cabinet of Ministers previously approved to amend the 1897 ordinance. However, the amendment bill prepared following that decision was not subsequently presented to Parliament.
The committee will also consider lessons and experience gained from epidemic situations in recent years when reviewing the proposed changes.
The proposal to this effect was submitted by the Health Minister.
