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Independence Day ceremony: Face masks if necessary
The Public Administration Ministry will consider providing face masks to invitees and people attending Independence Day celebrations on Tuesday, if more coronavirus cases are reported in the country by today.
The ministry’s Additional Secretary, K.G. Dharmathilake, said liquid hand wash would be provided while water would be supplied by the Water Board at makeshift washrooms.
He said that according to their estimate, the main Independence Day parade at Independence Square would be attended by about 2,500 guests and about a thousand people, while 4,325 Army personnel, 868 from the Navy, 815 from the Air Force, 1,382 from Police, 515 from Civil Defence Force and 355 from the National Cadet Corps would take part in the parade.
“If one or two more coronavirus cases are reported, we will go ahead and order face masks. Suppliers have already been registered to go for bulk purchase in case of an emergency,” he said.
Mr. Dharmathilke said the health authorities had advised that according to the present situation, there was no need for people to wear face masks at the Independence Day event. Those who wish to wear face masks could do so.
“Though coronavirus fear lingers among Sri Lankans, it will not hamper the tireless efforts to make the 72nd Independence Day celebration a successful and meaningful event.
This year’s event will have more than 450 persons performing in cultural events,” he said.